A movement to remove the question "Have you ever been convicted . . . ?" from employment applications is sweeping the nation.  Known as "Ban the Box," these laws prohibit employers from asking about criminal history on job applications and delay background checks until later in the hiring process. 

Ban the Box laws targeting private employers have been passed in 6 states.  Additionally, 11 cities and counties have passed local Ban the Box legislation targeting private businesses.  Unfortunately, each Ban the Box law is different, making it very difficult for employers to understand what they can ask and when (especially if operating in several jurisdictions).

A list of the states, cities, and counties with Ban the Box laws can be found here.  If you operate in any of these jurisdictions, you should review your employment applications to ensure compliance with state or local laws.

 

 

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