However, fair chance hiring mandates do not guarantee that individuals with criminal records will be hired. Employers may still choose not to hire a candidate based on their criminal record, even if they are qualified for the job. This can be frustrating for individuals who have worked hard to overcome the challenges associated with having a criminal record and are looking for a fresh start.
According to a report by the National Employment Law Project[1], fair chance hiring policies have been implemented in over 35 states and more than 150 cities and counties across the United States. These policies have been shown to increase employment opportunities for individuals with criminal records and reduce recidivism rates.
Research has also shown that fair chance hiring policies can benefit employers. A study by the Society for Human Resource Management[2] found that employees with criminal records tend to stay with their employer longer than those without criminal records. This is because individuals with criminal records often have limited employment options and are more motivated to keep their job.
Despite the benefits of fair chance hiring policies, some employers may still be hesitant to hire individuals with criminal records. This can be due to concerns about workplace safety, liability, and reputation. However, there are ways employers can mitigate these concerns, such as conducting background checks that focus on relevant convictions and providing support and resources for employees with criminal records.
In conclusion, fair chance hiring policies are an important step towards creating a more equitable workforce. While these policies do not guarantee that individuals with criminal records will be hired, they provide a framework for employers to consider candidates based on their qualifications rather than their criminal history. By implementing fair chance hiring policies, employers can help break down barriers to employment for individuals with criminal records and create a more diverse and inclusive workforce.
Sources: [1] National Employment Law Project. (2021). Ban the Box & Fair Chance Hiring: Statewide Guide. https://www.nelp.org/publication/ban-the-box-fair-chance-hiring-statewide-guide/ [2] Society for Human Resource Management. (2018). Hiring Employees with Criminal Records. https://www.shrm.org/hr-today/trends-and-forecasting/research-and-surveys/Documents/Hiring%20Employees%20with%20Criminal%20Records.pdf