Prohibits any employer from denying any person employment based on a prior criminal conviction and prohibits state from disqualifying any person from any occupation for which a license is required based on a prior conviction.
Impact
If passed, H7170 would amend existing state laws related to criminal procedure, specifically targeting employment practices associated with individuals who have criminal records. This legislative change is expected to create a more inclusive job market for returning citizens by requiring that potential employers cannot inquire about past convictions until an applicant has been deemed qualified for a position. This is intended to enhance the reintegration of offenders into the workforce and reduce barriers they face in gaining employment.
Summary
House Bill H7170 aims to prohibit discrimination based on prior criminal convictions by ensuring that individuals with such records are not denied employment by the state or any of its agencies. The bill emphasizes the importance of rehabilitating offenders and encourages employers to consider qualified individuals with criminal histories for job opportunities. It outlines conditions under which a person may be disqualified from employment or receiving a license, focusing on the nature of the crime, the applicant's rehabilitation, and the elapsed time since the conviction.
Contention
The bill may spark debates regarding public safety and employer rights. Supporters argue that it promotes fairness and helps break the cycle of poverty and recidivism by providing former offenders with opportunities to contribute positively to society. However, opponents might express concerns that this legislation could lead to inappropriate placements of individuals in certain jobs, particularly those involving vulnerable populations, arguing that the nature of specific crimes should be factor in hiring decisions.