(a) Any background investigation of a candidate for a peace officer position shall include an inquiry into whether the candidate has engaged or is engaging in membership in a hate group, participation in any hate group activity or advocacy of public expressions of hate.
(b) The hiring agency shall deny employment to a candidate for a peace officer position if, during a preemployment background it is determined that in the past 7 years and since 18 years of age, the candidate has engaged in membership in a hate group, participation in any hate group activity, or advocacy of public expressions of hate.
(c) A candidate for a peace officer position shall not be ineligible to be hired pursuant to this section if the candidate has ceased all activities described in subdivision (a) and at least 7 years has passed since the last such activity.