Despite convicted criminals obtaining GEDs and vocational training while paying their debt to society, many felons have a hard time finding employment upon release. They are often excluded, even before an interview, as a result of the dreaded criminal history “yes or no” box on job applications. But more and more states are implementing “Ban the Box” rules, aimed at prohibiting questions about criminal background on employment applications.
The expanded Ban the Box rules will allow “applicants the opportunity to explain their criminal record, correct inaccuracies in the criminal record, and make the case that they are qualified for the position sought.” The new law still allows employers to perform background checks after a job is offered.
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The legislation is currently in effect in 12 states, according to the National Employment Law Center. Lawmakers are also working on implementing the law into the private employment sector, subjecting privately owned businesses to uphold the rule.
But the law doesn’t apply to all jobs. Employment in child care is not subject to the Ban the Box rule.