Tag: Minnesota ban-the-box

Minnesota Legislators Suggest Banning the Box for State Board and Commission Appointments January 24, 2023 At the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce event, the state's Senate Majority Leader made a statement about a ban-the-box law. According to the leader, they now have a ban-the-box law that applies to corporations and wants to create a "ban-the-box for the government." Minnesota became the second state to ban public employers from asking about criminal history on an initial job application in 2009. Later, in 2013, they added private employers to the law. However, applicants must inform employers of any felony convictions when applying for appointments to commissions or boards for the state government. The governor and Secretary of State have agreed to address this issue with the help of a few legislators. However, the new Senate Majority Leader has expressed that she would tackle this concern this year. Ban-the-box laws allow individuals with criminal backgrounds to show employers their qualifications before anyone can discriminate about their criminal history. However, many employers may ask applicants about their criminal history later in the hiring process. Minnesota law also has exceptions for jobs requiring employers to conduct a background check, such as those for positions in the Department of Corrections. People who support ban-the-box provisions say that having an interview before revealing a criminal history provides a valuable opportunity for ex-offenders. For example, they can impress an employer with their qualifications and knowledge before criminal records become problematic. However, those against ban-the-box laws claim it hurts many people. They cite that employers become unlikely to hire people they believe could have a criminal record, such as individuals of color. Regardless, supporters emphasize that people should not avoid these laws based on the chance that employers might discriminate based on race. Many boards and commissions in the state are technical or advisory. As such, applications for boards that have a significant role in Minnesota's government may ask about criminal history. Applications for commissions and boards are public, which some people who support ban-the-box policies say may discourage people with a criminal record from applying. The governor makes most appointments for commissions and boards, and the Secretary of State is in charge of the application process. The governor and the Secretary of State expressed surprise and disapproval about applications still including such questions. Nevertheless, they did not ask for legislation to remove it. The Senate Majority Leader explained that they could quickly remove the question from these applications, but lawmakers are currently working to balance priorities and time on the floor. Ban-the-box laws have become increasingly common. As such, employers should ensure they stay updated about the laws in their areas. The best way to ensure compliance with all of the regulations concerning background screening is to partner with a trustworthy background check company. Pre-employ makes background checks easy and reliable. Speak with a compliance expert today. Source

Tag: Minnesota ban-the-box

Minnesota Legislators Suggest Banning the Box for State Board and Commission Appointments

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