New legislation eases occupational license obstacles – KIRO 7 Information Seattle

Omari Amili knows what prison is like. He served time on 30 bank fraud crimes. Now he’s talking to those who are still spending their time.

“There is pessimism about the opportunities society will offer, but they haven’t given up on themselves.”

When he got out, he wanted to become a drug and alcohol counselor – but feared his files would prevent him from obtaining a license from the state.

“Nothing told me that this was an option that Washington State would actually approve of my application. So I was so scared. I never applied, ”said Amili.

In fact, a criminal conviction can be a barrier to professions like manicurist and beautician, who may not have anything to do with the crime someone has committed.

Amili went to college and got staff, bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Now he works for non-profit organizations and looks after people who are still behind bars.

“I can let them know, look, I’ve been in your shoes before. And I used education as an exit and employment as an exit. “

He testified in support of the legislation signed by Governor Inslee today. HB 1399 reduces licensing barriers for jobs like beautician, manicurist, tattoo artist, real estate agent and funeral director. Now there are no automatic denials based on crime history.

“Once you have your licensing process and remove the barriers there, there’s nothing stopping you from starting your own business where you don’t even need someone else’s permission to make a living,” said Amili.

Since there are a disproportionately large number of blacks and browns behind bars, the new rules will have a positive effect.

“This will mean there will be more people who know that things are changing in society, that it doesn’t have to be this impasse,” said Amili.

Obtaining a license is not automatic. A licensing authority can still disqualify a person if the crime they committed is related to the profession they are trying to enter.