Georgia: licensing reforms for applicants with prior convictions
Georgia has enacted SB 207, expanding occupational licensing reforms aimed at improving access to professional credentials for individuals with criminal records by strengthening pathways for rehabilitation and workforce reentry. The law enhances existing policies by providing clearer standards for how licensing boards evaluate criminal history, limiting the use of vague “moral character” criteria, and allowing individuals to seek preliminary determinations about eligibility before investing in education or training. It also increases transparency and accountability by requiring boards to provide written reasons for denials and to consider factors such as the relevance of an offense to the occupation and evidence of rehabilitation. Supporters argue the reforms will reduce unnecessary barriers to employment and help address workforce shortages, while maintaining safeguards for public safety.