As I have worked collaboratively with Utah’s criminal justice, I have made it a goal to make sure Utah provides a path for those who have been successful in different rehabilitation services and now desire to reenter society. During this Legislative session, I have passed a bill through the House that will reinforce this commitment.
Many individuals who have completed rehabilitation and are working to reenter society possess a desire to go to college and get a degree in counseling or therapy and support other individuals who are on the similar path they were on. However, it’s not until after they’ve attained their degree that they find out that they cannot obtain a license in their chosen field of work because of their criminal history. H.B. 90 allows the Utah Division of Occupational & Professional Licensing (DOPL) to inform individuals if they can obtain a specific license before they go to college to get their degree. It, in addition, gives DOPL the resources to establish a process into place to determine how many years after a person gets released from incarceration and/or rehabilitation can they obtain a specific license.
Our goal with this legislation is to provide individuals with the tools they need to rebuild their lives after serving their time and trying to rehabilitate into society. We should be a state that provides every opportunity and assistance to those who gain a sincere desire to reform and transform their lives. I know this legislation preserves that Utah legacy.
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