Washington-Employment-Licensing

Public and private employers may not ask an applicant about their criminal history until the applicant is deemed otherwise qualified, unless the employer is authorized or required by law to conduct a background check.  Public employers and licensing agencies may consider applicants’ convictions only if they occurred within the last ten years or the crime “directly relates” to the desired position.  Holders of judicial CROP certificates may not be denied most public employment and licenses even if the conviction is related to the license, and convictions that have been vacated may be denied.  Benefits extended in 2021 to long-term care employees and contractors. Licensing agencies must to give potential applicants a preliminary determination as to eligibility, and an opportunity to appeals a negative decision.