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Bill

Bill

HB 128

AN ACT relating to criminal histories of job applicants.

2025 Regular Session

HB 128 addresses how Kentucky employers may consider applicants' criminal histories in hiring decisions, affecting workforce access for people with criminal records.

to Economic Development & Workforce Investment (H)
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Bill Summary · HB 128

Legislative bill overview

HB 128 is a Kentucky bill relating to criminal histories of job applicants, currently in the early stages of the legislative process. The bill was introduced in January 2025 and is now under consideration by the House Committee on Economic Development & Workforce Investment. The specific provisions have not yet been detailed in available legislative summaries.

Why is this important

Employment discrimination based on criminal history is a significant policy issue affecting workforce participation, recidivism rates, and economic reintegration of formerly incarcerated individuals. Kentucky's approach to this matter could influence hiring practices across the state and affect both job seekers with criminal records and employers' hiring procedures.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of restrictions: Whether employers can consider all criminal convictions or only those directly relevant to job duties
  • Lookback periods: How far back in a person's history employers can examine criminal records (sealed records, expunged records, etc.)
  • Employer liability: Whether restricting criminal history inquiries protects businesses from negligent hiring lawsuits or creates legal exposure

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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