For Three Years Businesses Backed Occupational Licensing Reform, Today Gov. Kemp Signed It Into Law

ATLANTA, GA (May 12, 2026) — Today, Governor Brian Kemp signed SB 207 into law — a bipartisan measure that lowers barriers to occupational licensing for thousands of hardworking Georgians seeking careers in specialized fields, including individuals with an old criminal record. The legislation was backed by dozens of Georgia businesses, who argued it will expand talent pools, strengthen the state’s workforce, and drive economic growth. 

“The signing of SB 207 marks a long-fought win to enhance fairness and transparency in Georgia’s licensing process, unlocking talent for businesses in the high-demand industries that need it most. It’s an important step toward economic mobility and opportunity for all, while maintaining strong public safety standards,” said Maha Jweied, CEO of the Responsible Business Initiative for Justice (RBIJ), an award-winning nonprofit that mobilized 25 businesses to support the bill. 

Before SB 207, which goes into effect July 1, 2027, many otherwise qualified job seekers were discouraged from investing the considerable time and money required to pursue licenses due to a lack of clarity around eligibility and processing — especially how a board would treat their record. 

After more than three years of business advocacy across sectors — through statements, letters, and public testimony coordinated by RBIJ in partnership with local organizations — SB 207 delivers targeted reforms to improve the licensing system. The law creates a pre-determination process for more than 40 licensing boards, increasing transparency around eligibility. It ensures that boards only consider convictions that are recent and relevant to their industries, and that applicants have the right to have their full story presented before a board determines eligibility. 

RBIJ applauds Governor Kemp for signing SB 207, as well as the business leaders and lawmakers who championed these commonsense reforms. When everyone has a fair chance to contribute, economies, businesses, and communities grow stronger. 

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About the Responsible Business Initiative for Justice (RBIJ)  

RBIJ is an award-winning international non-profit that empowers companies to advance justice and opportunity in public policy, workplaces, and modern culture. Since our founding in 2018, we’ve activated over 800 businesses across dozens of policy reform campaigns, inclusive hiring programs and public awareness efforts, working with some of the world’s most recognized brands. Learn more at rbij.org.