The Nebraska Legislature’s Business and Labor Committee heard testimony Monday on legislation (LB 420) that would remove criminal history check boxes from private employment applications.
State Sen. John McCollister of Omaha explained that Legislative Bill 420 would prevent employers from requiring disclosure of criminal history on the application only. During the interview process, employers would be allowed to ask about an applicant’s criminal background.
The bill seeks to give those convicted of felonies a chance to be judged on their qualifications and work history, not a past criminal violation.
Those testifying in favor of the bill included former felons.
Two former inmates convicted of sex crimes told committee members how they have filled out dozens of job applications only to get one or two callbacks.
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