April 3, 2015
New Virginia Majority Applauds Governor McAuliffe’s Executive Order to “Ban the Box” in State Hiring Practices
Richmond, VA – Today, Governor Terry McAuliffe announced that state job applications would no longer include a question asking if a person has ever been convicted of a felony.
The question on job applications often intimidates and discourages previously incarcerated individuals from applying for jobs, even if they are qualified for the position. Delaying inquiries into a person’s conviction history will level the playing field between previously incarcerated persons and candidates with similar qualifications.
“Unfortunately, finding a job is all too difficult for many people with records,” stated Tram Nguyen, co-executive director of New Virginia Majority. “Removing questions about conviction history from job applications is a simple policy change that eases hiring barriers and creates a fair chance for these individuals to compete for jobs.”
Finding and securing employment is one of the key factors to prevent recidivism for individuals reentering communities after completing their sentence. A formerly incarcerated person without a job is three times more likely to return to prison.
“Governor McAuliffe’s actions since taking office to ease the transition for returning citizens – from streamlining the civil rights restoration process to today’s announcement to ban the box, send a clear message that citizens who want a second chance are welcome as members of our communities,” continued Nguyen.
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