Fair Chance Act Sex Offender

Understanding The Fair Chance Act: Promoting Equal Employment Opportunities for Individuals with Conviction History

The Fair Chance Act, codified under Cal. Gov. Code §12952(c)(1)(A), aims to reduce barriers to employment for individuals with conviction history. This law requires employers in California to conduct an individualized assessment before making employment decisions based solely or in part on an applicant’s conviction history.

The Fair Chance Act Explained:

The Fair Chance Act introduces important considerations and guidelines for employers regarding the use of an applicant’s conviction history in employment decisions. Here’s an overview of its key elements:

Individualized Assessment:

Under The Fair Chance Act, employers intending to deny a position of employment based solely or in part on an applicant’s conviction history must conduct an individualized assessment. This assessment involves considering specific factors such as the nature of the offense, the time that has passed since the conviction or completion of the sentence, and the relevance of the conviction to the job in question.

Our Anaheim employment lawyers have represented clients who have been terminated after their employers discovered the conviction – however, many employers do not conduct an individualized assessment, thereby violating the law and our client’s rights.

Notice and Opportunity to Respond:

Employers must provide the applicant with a notice that they are considering adverse action based on the conviction history. The notice must include a reasonable opportunity for the applicant to provide evidence challenging the accuracy of the conviction, present mitigating circumstances, or demonstrate rehabilitation efforts.

Evaluation of Rehabilitation and Fitness:

As part of the individualized assessment, employers must evaluate an applicant’s rehabilitation efforts and fitness for the job. This includes considering evidence of rehabilitation, such as completion of education or training programs, employment history, and any positive references or recommendations.

Implications and Benefits:

The Fair Chance Act provides several implications and benefits for individuals with conviction history and the broader community:

Equal Employment Opportunities:

By requiring an individualized assessment, The Fair Chance Act ensures that individuals with conviction history have a fair opportunity to compete for employment. It helps prevent automatic rejection based solely on past convictions and promotes equal access to job opportunities.

Reduction of Recidivism:

By promoting fair hiring practices, The Fair Chance Act contributes to reducing recidivism rates. When individuals with conviction history are given a chance to secure employment and rebuild their lives, they are less likely to engage in further criminal activities, fostering community safety and successful reintegration.

Increased Workforce Diversity:

The law recognizes the value of a diverse workforce and encourages employers to focus on an applicant’s qualifications, skills, and potential rather than solely on their conviction history. This approach promotes inclusivity, diversity, and a more equitable labor market.

Compliance and Implementation:

Employers should familiarize themselves with the provisions of The Fair Chance Act to ensure compliance. Key steps for compliance include reviewing and updating hiring policies, providing proper notice to applicants, conducting individualized assessments, and maintaining records of compliance with the law.

Call Nassiri Law today at 949-375-4734 if you believe that an employer has violated your rights with respect to the “Fair Chance Act”. The Fair Chance Act serves as a crucial framework for employers in California, promoting fair and inclusive hiring practices for individuals with conviction history. By requiring individualized assessments and considering rehabilitation efforts, the law provides opportunities for second chances and reintegration into society. Employers should embrace The Fair Chance Act’s principles and integrate them into their hiring processes, creating a more just and inclusive workforce.