EMPLOYEE BACKGROUND FAIRNESS Senate SponsorsSen. Omar Aquino-Kimberly A. Lightford-Iris Y. Martinez 1/13/2021SenateSession Sine Die New ActCreates the Employee Background Fairness Act. Provides that an employer may not refuse to hire an individual and may not discharge an individual because of the individual's criminal history unless the individual has one or more convictions and there is a direct relationship between one of more of an individual's convictions and the specific employment sought. Prohibits retaliation for exercising rights under the Act. Provides that an individual denied or discharged from employment because of his or her criminal history in violation of the Act may recover from the employer in a civil action: (1) damages in the amount of $2,000 or actual damages, whichever is greater; (2) costs and reasonable attorney's fees as allowed by the court; and (3) any other appropriate relief, including punitive damages. Defines terms. Effective immediately. 2/11/2020SenateFiled with Secretary by Sen. Omar Aquino 2/11/2020SenateFirst Reading 2/11/2020SenateReferred to Assignments 2/25/2020SenateAdded as Chief Co-Sponsor Sen. Kimberly A. Lightford 2/26/2020SenateAdded as Chief Co-Sponsor Sen. Iris Y. Martinez 1/13/2021SenateSession Sine Die