One of the biggest barriers for individuals returning from jail or prison is finding employment. To help remove some of the barriers people with criminal convictions face to successfully find and secure a job, DPANM along with our community partners are proposing a "ban the box" campaign for New Mexico.

By "banning the box," the question on public job applications asking if the person has ever been convicted of a felony will be removed. Applicants will be considered on equal status with other job applicants, and only during the finalist interview process will a criminal background check be completed if it is relevant or required for the position.

Background

Most applications for public employment require the applicant to check a "yes" or "no" box if they have ever been convicted of a felony. There is rarely an opportunity for the applicant to provide an explanation of the crime, the circumstances or date of the conviction, or any rehabilitation that has been completed since being charged.

"According to a major survey, 40% of employers will not even consider a job applicant for employment once they are aware that the individual has a criminal record."

The discrimination faced by individuals with former criminal convictions in the application process prevents many individuals from securing employment, despite their qualifications for the job. We must take practical steps to removing barriers to employment to not only facilitate the integration of people released from jail or prison into our communities, but also to make our communities safer by decreasing the chance for recidivism.

More Information

• Ban the Box Fact Sheet
• Local Organizations Support Ban the Box
• Ban the Box Talking Points

Get Involved

• Sign up to receive Drug Policy Alliance New Mexico's action alerts.
• Check out DPA's 2009 Legislative Tool-Kit for tips on how you can be an effective advocate.