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Bill

Bill

S 3795

Relates to prohibiting colleges from asking about an applicant's prior arrests or convictions during the pre-admissions process

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Zellnor Myrie

Bill S 3795 prohibits colleges from asking about applicants' prior arrests or convictions, promoting inclusivity and equity in higher education admissions.

REPORTED AND COMMITTED TO HIGHER EDUCATION
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Bill Summary · S 3795

Summary of Bill S 3795

Bill Overview

Bill Number: S 3795
Title: Relates to prohibiting colleges from asking about an applicant's prior arrests or convictions during the pre-admissions process
Status: Reported and Committed to Higher Education
Introduced: January 30, 2025
Primary Sponsor: Zellnor Myrie

Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of Bill S 3795 is to eliminate barriers to higher education for individuals with prior arrests or convictions. By prohibiting colleges and universities from inquiring about an applicant's criminal history during the pre-admissions process, the bill aims to promote inclusivity and reduce discrimination against potential students who may have faced legal challenges in the past.

Key Provisions

  • Prohibition on Inquiry: The bill specifically prohibits institutions of higher education from asking about an applicant's prior arrests or convictions as part of the admissions process.
  • Focus on Rehabilitation: By removing this barrier, the legislation encourages the acceptance of individuals who have rehabilitated and are seeking educational opportunities.
  • Support for Equity: The bill is designed to foster a more equitable admissions process, particularly benefiting marginalized communities disproportionately affected by the criminal justice system.

Affected Parties

  • Colleges and Universities: All institutions of higher education within the jurisdiction of the bill will be required to adjust their admissions processes to comply with the new regulations.
  • Prospective Students: Individuals applying for college who have prior arrests or convictions will benefit from a more inclusive admissions process, potentially increasing their chances of acceptance and success in higher education.

Legislative Timeline

  • January 30, 2025: Bill S 3795 was introduced and referred to the Committee on Crime Victims, Crime and Correction.
  • March 25, 2025: The bill was reported and committed to the Committee on Higher Education, indicating progress in the legislative process.

Related Legislation

Bill S 3795 is part of a broader legislative effort to address issues related to criminal justice and education. It is related to several prior-session bills, including:
- S 969
- S 6437
- S 3740
- S 809
- S 4068
- S 3415

These related bills may share similar objectives or address overlapping issues concerning the intersection of criminal justice and educational access.

Conclusion

Bill S 3795 represents a significant step toward reforming the admissions process in higher education by removing questions about criminal history. This change is expected to enhance opportunities for individuals with prior legal issues, promoting a more inclusive and equitable educational environment.

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

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