Connecticut House Bill HB05870

Connecticut 2015 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/21/15
• Refer: 1/21/15

Caption

An Act Concerning Public Employers, Criminal Histories And Employment Applications.

Impact

If enacted, HB 5870 would align employment practices in the public sector with the goals of rehabilitation and reintegration for individuals with criminal histories. The passage of this bill is anticipated to significantly affect hiring policies and practices, particularly within government agencies. It seeks to create an environment that encourages the employment of individuals who may have been previously disenfranchised due to past criminal behavior, potentially beneficially impacting both the individuals and the communities they return to.

Summary

House Bill 5870 is designed to reform the hiring practices of public employers by prohibiting them from inquiring about a job applicant's criminal history until it has been established that the applicant meets basic employment qualifications. This legislative move aims to remove barriers that individuals with criminal records face when seeking employment, thereby facilitating their reintegration into the workforce. By delaying this inquiry, the bill assesses qualifications before considering the applicant's criminal background, promoting a fairer hiring process.

Contention

There may be discussions surrounding the unintended consequences of this bill, such as public safety concerns that some employers might express regarding hiring individuals with criminal records. The balance between second chances for job applicants and the responsibilities of employers to ensure workplace safety and suitability may lead to debates. Supporters of the bill argue it fosters inclusivity, while opponents may worry about the implications it could have on public trust and safety in certain employment sectors.