Louisiana Senate Bill SR120

Louisiana 2010 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/9/10
• Passed: 6/9/10

Caption

Requests regulation of use of consumer credit reports being used for employment.

Impact

If implemented, SR120 could reshape employment practices across Louisiana by providing a framework that limits the reliance on credit reports as a basis for hiring decisions outside of specific industries like finance and law enforcement. This could lead to increased opportunities for job seekers who may otherwise be overlooked due to poor credit ratings, which are often a product of unfortunate economic circumstances rather than a reflection of their professional capabilities. The resolution promotes a more equitable job market by advocating for the recognition of these disparities.

Summary

Senate Resolution No. 120 urges the Louisiana Workforce Commission to regulate the use of consumer credit reports as criteria for employment. The resolution highlights concerns regarding the fairness of using an individual's credit history, especially in the context of high unemployment rates and economic challenges faced by many Louisiana residents. It emphasizes that factors such as unemployment and financial hardship can significantly impact an individual's creditworthiness, thus making such criteria for employment potentially discriminatory.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SR120 appears to be largely supportive of protecting vulnerable job seekers from discriminatory practices related to employment. Proponents of this resolution see it as a necessary step to combat systemic issues that perpetuate economic difficulties for many individuals. There is an acknowledgment of the broader economic implications as well, particularly in light of the additional strain caused by external events like the oil spill affecting Louisiana's economy.

Contention

While the resolution is a push towards enhancing consumer protection in employment practices, there may be concerns from employers about regulating hiring criteria. Critics might argue that credit history can be an important indicator of responsibility and trustworthiness, especially in sectors where financial management is pivotal. As such, there could be a debate on the balance between safeguarding individual rights and businesses’ needs for information that could inform hiring practices.