House Democratic whip applauds passage of licensure system bill

State Rep. Jordan Harris (D-Philadelphia), House Democratic whip, applauds the passage of House Bill 1477 that restructures how the state’s occupational licensure system views criminal records.

Under the bill, licensing boards in Pennsylvania will have alternatives in the licensing process, allowing them to issue licenses to formally incarcerated and convicted individuals.

The boards will have the authority to consider mitigating factors when making licensure decisions and to determine if a criminal conviction directly relates to the occupational license being sought. Boards also will have the authority to conduct an individualized assessment of an applicant’s criminal conviction and rehabilitation.

Harris co-authored the bill with Rep. Sheryl Delozier (R-Cumberland).

“This legislation is about second chances, job growth and lower recidivism across Pennsylvania,” Harris said. “We know the number one way to lower recidivism and stop people from falling into the pitfall of crime is to give them a chance at secure employment and a better life, and that’s exactly what House Bill 1477 accomplishes. I’m thrilled to have worked with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle, especially Representative Delozier again, to help give thousands of Pennsylvanians a chance to succeed and turn their lives around.”

The bill will help formally incarcerated individuals have successful careers, Harris said.