MarylandHB 05572026 Regular SessionHouseWALLET

Occupational Licensing and Certification - Criminal History - Predetermination Review Process

Sponsored By: Andrea Fletcher Harrison (Democratic)

Signed by Governor

Business Occupations and ProfessionsCriminal Law - ProceduresAdministrative AgenciesCertificationsCriminal Background InvestigationsDistrict CourtsEvaluations and ReviewsFederal GovernmentFees -see also- Attys' Fees; Devt Fees & TaxesLicenses -see also- AB Lic; Certifications; DrLic; PermitsLow-IncomeReportsState EmployeesSunsetWork, Labor, and Employment -see also- JobTrn; Leave; etc.

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 1 mixed.

Advance license checks for job seekers

Beginning July 1, 2026, you can request an advance check of whether your criminal history blocks an occupational license or certificate. This covers Maryland’s departments of Agriculture, the Environment, Health, Human Services, and Labor. The decision binds the department unless your criminal history has a direct, material change for the worse. If the department finds that your history disqualifies you, it must explain why. You can submit a revised request after one year or after a material change in your criminal history. The law expires June 30, 2029.

Some license applicants miss new protections

Beginning July 1, 2026, some Maryland license applicants are excluded from the law’s criminal-history protections and advance review process. These exclusions cover applicants before the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services or its units. They also cover initial licenses and renewals under Title 11, Subtitle 6 of Maryland’s Financial Institutions Article. The law expires June 30, 2029.

License review fees with income waivers

Beginning July 1, 2026, covered Maryland departments may charge up to $100 for an advance criminal-history review. A department may waive the fee if your income is at or below 300% of the federal poverty level. Income eligibility is determined by the District Court of Maryland, and a waiver is not guaranteed. The law expires June 30, 2029.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Andrea Fletcher Harrison
Democratic • House

Cosponsors

Gabriel Acevero
Democratic • House
Tiffany T. Alston
Democratic • House
Adrian Boafo
Democratic • House
Derrick Coley
Democratic • House
Charlotte Crutchfield
Democratic • House
Debra Davis
Democratic • House
Julian Ivey
Democratic • House
Jeffrie E. Long
Democratic • House
Kenneth Kerr
Democratic • House
Denise Roberts
Democratic • House
Kym Taylor
Democratic • House
Karen Toles
Democratic • House
Veronica Turner
Democratic • House
C. T. Wilson
Democratic • House

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 141 • No: 28

Senate vote • 4/13/2026

Third Reading Passed

Yes: 45 • No: 0 • Other: 2

House vote • 3/5/2026