An Act relative to increasing opportunities for employment in professional licensure

This bill amends Massachusetts law to prevent licensing boards from automatically denying professional licenses solely because an applicant has a criminal record. It requires these authorities to consider each case individually and explicitly forbids the use of certain past offenses, such as sealed records, non-violent misdemeanors, and crimes older than three years, in licensing decisions. Under the new rules, a license can only be restricted if officials prove with clear and convincing evidence that the specific crime directly relates to the job's duties and that public safety risks outweigh the individual's right to work. The legislation applies to all agencies and boards that issue occupational licenses or collect licensing fees across the state.