Ban the Box proposal approved by Alabama Senate committee

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Proposed legislation meant to help convicted felons find work after they’re released from prison is moving forward in the Alabama Legislature.

Senate Minority Leader Quinton Ross said in a statement Thursday that his proposal to create a ‘ban the box’ policy in Alabama has been approved by the Senate Judiciary Committee and may be added to the Senate calendar for debate.

Ross’s proposal would prevent state departments and licensing boards from asking applicants about their criminal history during the initial stage of the application process.

Advocates have said the policies help reduce recidivism by clearing an easier path for ex-convicts to find stable employment.

Opponents have said the policies raise safety and liability concerns.

According to the National Employment Law Project, 21 states have implemented policies similar to Ross’s proposal.

Republished with permission of the Associated Press.

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