‘Ban-the-Box’ Bill: new law aims to help those in California with criminal history get hired

CALIFORNIA – As we head into the New Year, new laws are scheduled to set in, including one aimed at helping those with a criminal history have a better chance at getting hired.

In October, AB-1008, better known as the Ban-the-Box law, was passed and will soon be taking effect.

The bill will prohibit private employers, with at least five employees, from inquiring or considering an applicant’s conviction history, until they’ve made a conditional offer for the job.

AB-1008 will also require the employer to provide the applicant with written notification if they do decide to deny them because of their record, and then give the applicant five business days to respond, before a final decision can be made.

There are specific positions exempt from the bill.

Nearly one in three Californian adults has an arrest or conviction.

A section of the bill reads, “Experts have found that employment is essential to helping formerly incarcerated people support themselves and their families, that a job develops pro-social behavior, strengthens community ties, enhances self-esteem, and improves mental health, all of which reduce recidivism. These effects are strengthened the longer the person holds the job, and especially when it pays more than minimum wage.”

The bill will take effect starting Monday.