Ban The Box for Municipalities

Updated July 1, 2015 1 Municipality Restrictions on Criminal Records There are a number of municipal or county entities with restrictions applicable to employers and landlords on the use of criminal records. Below are explanations for extensive restrictions in place for the major cities of Seattle, Boston, Philadelphia, Madison, and Newark. This is followed by … Continued

Background Checks: What Employers Need to Know

https://www.ftc.gov/tips-advice/business-center/guidance/background-checks-what-employers-need-know If employers use background checks in making personnel decisions, they must comply with the Fair Credit Reporting Act and laws that protect people from discrimination. The FTC and EEOC have tips for businesses on the lawful use of background information.   A joint publication of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and the Federal Trade … Continued

Important Information on HUD and Section 8 Housing

The Federal HUD Handbook 4350.3 deals with the federal requirements of the housing voucher program commonly called ‘section 8’. Several states have their own policies regarding screening of low income applicants which utilize the voucher program. Additionally, each local PHA (Public Housing Agency) interprets these at a local level. These guidelines, interpreted by the local … Continued

The FCRA Mandatory Limitations on Reporting by a CRA

The Limitations The following items cannot be reported by a CRA on a consumer report EXCEPT, if for employment, these restrictions do not apply to where the annual salary of the applicant for employment may be expected to meet or exceed $75,000 per year. This exception is often noted in the State Rules Register as … Continued

EEOC Enforcement Guidance on Use of Criminal Records

The anticipated “new” Guidance in EEOC on criminal records was issued on April 25, 2012 and became generally available on April 27, 2012. In summary, the new Guidance is a refinement of existing restrictions rather than an overhaul of the existing standards. One might say this announcement may be interpreted as an attempt to “get … Continued