Coleman’s Bipartisan Bill To Boost Colorado Workforce Advances

Legislation would eliminate barriers for Coloradans with a criminal history obtain licensure, certification or registration for many professions

DENVER, CO - Yesterday, Senator James Coleman’s (D-Denver) bipartisan legislation to boost Colorado’s workforce by breaking down barriers for Coloradans with a criminal history to obtain licensure, certification or registration for many professions and occupations, unanimously cleared the Senate Finance Committee.

Cosponsored by Senator Larry Liston (R-Colorado Springs), HB22-1098 would make it easier for Coloradans with unrelated criminal charges to obtain the credentials they need to enter a profession.

“This year we’re working hard to bolster Colorado’s workforce and get our economy on the right track,” said Coleman. “Right now, if you have a criminal history you’re barred from entering many professions or occupations. This bill opens up new opportunities to get highly qualified individuals into these jobs and give our workforce the boost it needs.”

HB22-1098 would also set a new requirement that if a regulator denies a license based on an applicant’s criminal history, the regulator must communicate that reason to the applicant. 

HB22-1098 now heads to the Senate Appropriations Committee for further consideration. Follow the bill’s progress HERE.