H.R. 2332: States Handling Access to Reciprocity for Employment Act of 2025

This bill, called the **States Handling Access to Reciprocity for Employment Act of 2025** (or the **SHARE Act of 2025**), proposes changes in how criminal history record information is handled in relation to professional licensing across states. It specifically focuses on the sharing of criminal history records by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) for those applying for professional licenses in states that are part of an interstate compact.

Key Provisions of the Bill

• Access to Criminal History Records: The FBI is required to provide certain criminal history record information to state licensing authorities. This is intended for use in conducting background checks for individuals seeking licenses or to practice specific occupations in states that have entered into interstate agreements.
• Use of Information: The state licensing authorities can only use the provided criminal history information for the specific purpose of evaluating license applications. They are prohibited from sharing this information with the compact's Commission, other state entities, or the public.
• Notification of Background Check Completion: While sharing detailed criminal history information is restricted, state licensing authorities are allowed to inform the compact Commission that a background check has been completed and whether it was satisfactory. This serves as a notification without revealing sensitive details.

Definitions Included in the Bill

• Commission: Refers to a joint governmental entity established through legislation of an interstate compact.
• Criminal History Record Information: This involves information about arrests, detentions, indictments, or formal criminal charges collected by criminal justice agencies.
• License: This term encompasses any authorization or certification provided by a state authority for individuals to practice a profession.
• Privilege: Refers to the authority granted to license holders under an interstate compact to practice in member states.
• State: Encompasses any U.S. state, territory, the District of Columbia, and other possessions.
• State Identification Bureau: Defines the agency responsible for managing identification-related information.
• State Licensing Authority: This includes any state agency or board authorized to grant licenses for professions.

Impact on Professional Licensing

The bill aims to streamline the process for individuals who want to practice their profession across state lines by enabling a coordinated system for background checks. This facilitates easier mobility for licensed professionals while maintaining controls over sensitive criminal history information.

Relevant Companies

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