Governor Abbott Vetoes HB 1426 (85R)
Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto House Bill No. 1426 as passed by the Eighty-Fifth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:
One of the consequences of committing a crime is a criminal record. Both this session and last session, I have signed bills designed to help people with criminal records get jobs so they can lead productive lives. This is a worthy goal, but House Bill 1426 goes too far by prohibiting state licensing agencies from considering the criminal records of some who apply for a license. A license applicant’s criminal background is something the licensing agency should be able to consider. If certain licensing agencies are unfairly discriminating against applicants with criminal records, that should be addressed at the agency board level or through more targeted legislation.
Since the Eighty-Fifth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 15th day of June, 2017.
GREG ABBOTT
Governor