Missouri Senate

Introduced

Beginning August 28, 2019, applicants for licensure who have pleaded guilty to, entered a plea of nolo contendere to, or been found guilty of any offenses set forth in the act may be considered by licensing authorities to have committed a criminal offense that directly relates to the duties and responsibilities of a licensed profession.

Any requirement of a licensing authority that assesses the character or moral fitness of the applicant for licensure shall be limited to consideration of the criminal offenses, civil penalties or judgments, or disciplinary actions taken by other licensing authorities. If an applicant is denied licensure under this act, the applicant may appeal the decision and request a hearing before the licensing authority, which may reverse its initial decision.

Licensing authorities shall meet these licensing requirements within 10 months of August 28, 2019.

If the state, on or after August 28, 2019, requires a license to practice an occupation or profession for which no license was required before August 28, 2019, the licensing authority shall establish a list of disqualifying criminal offenses and ensure that its consideration of moral fitness is limited in accordance with this act.

The provisions of this act shall only apply to the professions and occupations set forth in the act.

Provisions of law relating to the denial of licensure, denial of license renewal, or revocation of a certificate of registration based on a crime or offense involving moral turpitude are repealed for the following occupations and professions:

• Acupuncturists;

• Appraisers;

• Athlete Agents;

• Barbers;

• Behavior Analysts;

• Boxing and Wrestling;

• Cosmetologists;

• Dietitians;

• Endowed Care Cemetery Operators;

• Geologists;

• Hearing Instrument Specialists;

• Marital and Family Therapists;

• Occupational Therapists;

• Private Investigators;

• Professional Counselors;

• Social Workers; and

• Tattooing, Branding, and Body Piercing.

This act is similar in concept to provisions contained in SS/SCS/HB 1719 (2018) and HCS/HB 1587 (2018).

JOSIE BUTLER