Summary: Assembly Bill A 7147
Overview
- Bill number: A 7147
- Title: Relates to the definition of "direct relationship" for the purposes of article 23-A of the correction law regarding certain licensures and employment
- Purpose: The bill proposes a change to how the term “direct relationship” is defined within Article 23-A of the Correction Law, with respect to whether past criminal conduct disqualifies an individual from licensure or employment.
- Status: REFERRED TO CORRECTION
- Introduction date: March 20, 2025
Key Provisions (as described by bill title)
- The core change is a redefinition of the term “direct relationship” used in Article 23-A of the Correction Law.
- The redefinition would govern determinations related to licensure and employment, potentially altering when prior criminal history is considered directly related to the duties of a job or a licensure standard.
- Specific textual details, criteria, or thresholds of the new definition are not provided in the summary provided.
Who Would Be Affected
- Individuals with past criminal convictions applying for state licensure or seeking employment in roles covered by Article 23-A.
- Licensing boards and regulatory agencies administering Article 23-A standards.
- Employers evaluating applicants who have relevant criminal histories and fall under Article 23-A requirements.
Context and Related Legislative Activity
- Related bills (prior-session counterparts or companion measures) include: A 2734, A 4887, A 5357, A 8065, A 2144, A 7937, A 5213, A 1923.
- Companion in the Senate: S 1213 (listed as a companion bill).
- The bill’s current path shows it has been referred to the Correction Committee.
Procedural and Timeline Considerations
- As of the latest information, the bill has been referred to the Correction Committee, indicating it will undergo committee review, potential amendments, and a floor vote before moving to subsequent legislative stages.
- No specific markup, hearing date, or voting timeline is provided in the provided details.
Potential Impact and Considerations
- If the redefinition expands or clarifies what constitutes a “direct relationship,” it could broaden or narrow eligibility for licensure and employment for individuals with criminal histories.
- Licensing boards may need to adjust policies, guidance, and decision frameworks to align with the new definition.
- Employers and applicants may experience changes in determinations of suitability for specific roles.
Next Steps for Readers
- Monitor for committee hearings or amendments to A 7147 to understand the exact language of the new definition.
- Review the bill’s text (when released) to assess which offenses, timeframes, or relationships are now considered directly related or not.
- Compare with the companion S 1213 and related Assembly bills to gauge broader legislative intent across chambers.