NEW BUSINESS OWNER ACT

Creates the Illinois New Business Owner Act. Provides that no application for a license for any State or local department, agency, board, or commission shall be denied or acted on adversely by reason of the applicant having been previously convicted of one or more criminal offenses or by reason of a finding of lack of good moral character, except if certain determinations are made. Provides certain factors to be considered concerning a previous criminal conviction. Effective immediately. House Floor Amendment No. 2 Deletes reference to: New Act Adds reference to: 20 ILCS 2105/2105-131 Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Amends the Department of Professional Regulation Law of the Civil Administrative Code of Illinois. Defines "mitigating factors" for the purposes of provisions concerning the licensure, certification, or registration of applicants with criminal convictions. Provides that mitigating factors are not a bar to licensure, instead they provide guidance for the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation when considering licensure, registration, or certification for an applicant with criminal history. Provides that the Department, upon a finding that an applicant for a license, certificate, or registration was previously convicted of a felony or misdemeanor that may be grounds for refusing to issue a license or certificate or to grant a registration, shall consider the circumstances surrounding the offense or offenses. Provides that the Department shall consider any mitigating factors from the point of arrest or indictment when determined to be appropriate. Makes other changes.