Bill > HB3675

This bill establishes new rules for how public employers in Texas can consider criminal history during the job application process. The legislation defines public employers as state government agencies, including higher education institutions and political subdivisions, but specifically excludes independent school districts and law enforcement agencies. Under the new law, public employers are prohibited from obtaining or asking about an applicant's criminal history before making a conditional job offer, with two limited exceptions: employers can notify applicants that certain criminal convictions would disqualify them from a position, and they can include a question on the initial application about convictions that would legally prevent employment. After making a conditional offer, employers are then permitted to review an applicant's criminal history. The bill will apply only to employment applications submitted on or after its effective date of September 1, 2025, and aims to provide more fairness in the initial stages of the public employment application process by delaying criminal background checks until after a conditional offer has been made.

Business and Industry, Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3675