Senator Christopher L. "Chris" Smith, District 29 — Press Release

Senator Smith’s Criminal Justice Bill Passes the Senate Floor with Unanimous Bipartisan Support

TALLAHASSEE- Senator Christopher L. Smith’s (D-Ft. Lauderdale) Senate Bill 146 has passed the senate floor with 39 YEAS and 0 NAYS. This bill will allow ex-offenders to have a second chance to be productive members of society.

Senate Bill 146 removes the hurdle that many ex-offenders face when seeking employment. The bill requires states agencies to outline the conditions that will prevent an ex-offender from obtaining employment.

The bill will remove liability when employers higher ex-offenders. The bill also outlines that reinstatement of Civil Rights are not required to obtain occupational licenses, permits, or professional certifications.

“The goal of the bill is to give ex-offenders access to employment,” Smith said. 

Last, the bill prohibits state agencies from denying an application for a license, permit, certificate, or employment based on a person’s lack of civil rights.

“We as a legislature must provide the tools for ex-offenders to be productive and not be offenders again,” Smith said. “Today proved that the legislature is committed to creating jobs and getting people back to work.”

Representative Dwayne Taylor (D-Daytona Beach) is the house companion sponsor for House Bill 449. House Bill 449 has been referred to the following committees: Government Operations Subcommittee, Criminal Justice Subcommittee, Government Operations Appropriations Subcommittee and State Affairs Committee; but unfortunately has not been placed on agenda.

“We are working with leadership to help get ex-offenders back to work,” Smith said.

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