Imagine struggling to find gainful employment despite your qualifications and talents, all because of a mistake made decades ago--paying for a crime long after your prison sentence has been fulfilled or years after being discharged from probation.  The corrections system is designed, among other things, to dole out penalties for crimes. From probation to prison time, there are many ways in which we hold violators of criminal laws accountable in this country. But once these penalties are fulfilled shouldn't people be allowed to become productive, employed members of society? Across the country, people are eliminated from job applicant pools because of a single box on their application-- one that asks about criminal convictions. Nebraska is poised to become the next state in a growing list to eliminate that question on initial job applications. We want to help them pass that law. 

Access to employment has been shown to play a major role in recidivism. Every year about 9 million people are released from jail and around 700,000 from prison. When someone is released from prison and can't find a job they are far more likely to resort back to a life of crime. Many people exit the prison system prepared to work hard and clean up their lives only to be turned away again and again by employers. While discriminating against someone because of their record is unethical and sometimes illegal, it does happen.

Nebraska State Senator Brenda council introduced ​legislation​ that would make it easier for people to get their foot in the door. If passed, this law would effectively ensure that initial applications weren't tossed aside for mentioning a criminal conviction. The law wouldn't eliminate employers' ability to ask about convictions, simply delay it--allowing everyone a chance at getting their foot in the door. While this bill only pertains to public employment, it would pave the way for private companies to also join the cause. Help Nebraska become the next state to "ban the box". Show your support by sending a letter to the lawmakers there. 

Photo Credit: Daquella Manera