Philadelphia Employers Get New “Fair Chance” Compliance Tool: 7 Steps to Consider Taking Now
Employers in Philadelphia just received a new tool to help comply with the city’s ban on criminal history inquiries, which was significantly expanded in January. T his year’s changes to Philly’s “fair chance” or “ban-the-box” ordinance covered more employers, clarified key definitions and procedures, and added more robust notice, retaliation, and enforcement provisions. The Philadelphia Commission on Human Rights (PCHR) has now released a document summarizing the ordinance amendments, which can be provided to employees to satisfy the “notice of rights” requirement . Here’s what you need to know about the new model notice, a refresher on your obligations, and a seven-step compliance plan. What Happened? Philadelphia’s Fair Criminal Record Screening Standards Ordinance has been in place since 2011. This law – which is also known as a “fair chance” or “ban-the-box” ordinance – puts limits on the questions employers can ask job applicants about their criminal history . The goal is to remo...