When seeking registration certificates for their non-regulated businesses, Cobb business owners no longer will face certain restrictions.

Those include violations of a federal or state law, involving a felony, “moral turpitude” or gambling.

Moral turpitude is a catch-all phrase that can include murder, rape, assault, incest, kidnapping, robbery and fraud.

The Cobb County Board of Commissioners voted 4-1, with Commissioner JoAnn Birrell opposed, to allow this change.

Birrell said her concern is “with the safety of citizens by allowing someone with recent felonies to go into their homes.”

Commissioner Bob Ott said he opposed “putting a roadblock in front of people who are trying to recover.”

Agreeing with Ott, Commissioner Lisa Cupid said it would be trying people again after they have served their time.

Nonregulated businesses would include any business not requiring state certification such as a handyman, music teacher or an accountant, Cobb Community Development Agency Director Dana Johnson said.

About the Author

Featured

In this file photo from October 2024, Atlanta Braves outfielder Jorge Soler and teammates react after losing to the San Diego Padres 5-4 in San Diego. The Braves and Soler, who now plays for the Los Angeles Angels, face a lawsuit by a fan injured at a 2021 World Series game at Truist Park in Atlanta. (Jason Getz/AJC)

Credit: Jason.Getz@ajc.com