Employers would no longer be able to ask about your criminal history on a job application, under legislation being considered at the Capitol.
State Representative Joe Parisi (D-Madison) says it’s a problem faced by many convicted felons looking for work after they’re released. He says many of those job seekers end up never hearing back from a potential employer, once they’ve checked that box on the application.
Milwaukee resident Rashan Miller, who was convicted of a felony 12 years ago, says it’s an issue that comes up often in his search for work. Even though it’s illegal, Miller says many businesses use that disclosure to weed through applicants.
Madison labor attorney Dean Kelly says applicants who feel they’ve been turned away because of a criminal record can challenge that decision, and businesses already face stiff penalties for violating labor laws on the issue. However, supporters of the bill say that can be very difficult to prove.
AUDIO: Andrew Beckett reports (1:01)