Relating to the consequences of a criminal conviction on a person's eligibility for an occupational license.

HB 2498 requires Texas licensing authorities to include specific notices in application forms and on their websites about how criminal convictions may affect occupational license eligibility. The notice must explain that prior convictions could lead to denial, list the factors used to evaluate eligibility (per Sections 53.022-53.023), and inform applicants about requesting a criminal history evaluation letter. Licensing authorities must also track and annually report statistics on applications, approvals, denials (especially those due to criminal history), and evaluation letter requests to the legislature and the public. The bill directly affects individuals seeking occupational licenses who have criminal records and the state agencies that issue those licenses. It applies to most occupational licensing boards but excludes the State Securities Board.