2020 – SB 1318 – Fair Chance Employment Act

Fair chance employment legislation would ensure Idahoans returning to the workforce post-incarceration are able to access employment opportunities.

Passing fair chance employment legislation means that Idahoans returning to the workforce post-incarceration would be able to access employment opportunities that decrease their likelihood of recidivism, allow them to provide for themselves and their families, and increase their ability to contribute to Idaho’s growing economy. SB 1318 requires employers to eliminate blanket exclusions of people with criminal records, delaying criminal history inquiries until a job interview or conditional offer of employment. Banning the box gives all job applicants a fair chance at opportunity and a fresh start, while ensuring that Idaho’s recidivism rates stay low because formerly incarcerated Idahoans are able to access meaningful employment in their local communities.