Archive for July 2020
Pennsylvania’s Updated Use of Prior Criminal Records In Licensing Decisions
On June 24 2020, the General Assembly enacted Senate Bill 637 which reforms occupational licensing by getting rid of outdated criminal record restrictions for the professions and occupations which are regulated by boards and commissions within the Bureau of Professional and Occupational Affairs (BPOA). Prior state law perpetuated racial disparities in arrests in the…
Read MoreDUI ARD, Prior Offense, Sentencing Enhancement, Repeat Offender
Recidivist sentencing enhancement statutes continue to be declared unconstitutional based upon relatively recent US Supreme Court cases. In 2000 the U.S. Supreme Court decided State v. Apprendi. There the Court states a criminal sentence must be based upon facts the fact finder (judge or jury) found beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant committed. Apprendi…
Read MoreResponding to patient criticism with confidence and poise
Criticism, especially when its content is a direct threat to a medical professional’s licensure, may create anxiety and frustration, to say the least. Health care professionals facing potentially damaging claims from patients in Pennsylvania may benefit from understanding how to effectively respond to criticism. When professionals are able to maintain confidence, poise and civility in…
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