StateWest Virginia

HB 4819: Relating to use of criminal records as disqualification from authorization to practice a particular profession

Kathie Hess CrouseIntroduced

HB 4819 status: Introduced — Chapter 140, Acts, Regular Session, 2026 (updated Jun 29, 2026).

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What this bill does

Overall score

Score75/100 civic fit
RiskLow risk
ImpactModerate impact 60/100

Bill summary

Official

This bill is about whether your past criminal record should be allowed to stop you from getting a professional license (like a license to be a barber, nurse, or plumber). It is currently being debated in the House.

Key analysis

Constitutionality85%
Bipartisan70%
Public opinion80%
2

Impact analysis

Environment

Mixed / Neutral
50%

Benefits

  • No direct impact on environmental regulations

Risks

  • No direct impact on environmental regulations

Economy

Positive Outlook
75%

Benefits

  • Increases labor market participation
  • Reduces barriers to entry for skilled trades

Risks

  • Potential administrative costs for licensing boards
  • Compliance burden regarding new vetting standards

Society

Positive Outlook
80%

Benefits

  • Promotes successful re-entry for justice-involved individuals
  • Reduces recidivism through expanded employment opportunities

Risks

  • Possible public concern regarding professional competency
  • Balancing rehabilitation with public safety mandates
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How trustworthy & consequential it is

Source

OpenStates

Confidence

low

low

Analysis status

OpenStates summary

Warning

Potential administrative burden on professional boards during implementation

Limitation

Analysis based on abstract summary only

4

Where it stands

1

Introduced

Current

Chapter 140, Acts, Regular Session, 2026

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Committee

Upcoming
3

Floor

Upcoming
4

Governor

Upcoming
5

Enacted

Upcoming
5

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