Debate between the government sector and private sector has been going for a long time. It’s true that with felons’ employment, myths and facts are associated. Under the US Workplace of Personnel Administration (OPM), there is no personal record for any prohibition in opposition to hiring felons. Simply as with different jobs in the market, you simply should show you’re worthy of federal employment for felons.

Though there is no such thing as a normal ban on hiring felons. However, some particular rules generally apply to the kind of job and the kind of criminal history. For example, a person who has been convicted of home violence crimes could also be prohibited from employment related to shipping, transport, etc.

When you find yourself eligible for a job, the OPM will decide your eligibility based on your case. Several other factors are kept in mind such as:

  • Duties of the place you utilized for
  • Nature of the felony
  • How current the crime is
  • Proof of rehabilitation

Before you make any final judgment, let’s have to look at some common myths which need to be busted.

Myth 1: Organizations have a Fair Hiring Practice.

FACT: Prior research suggests that employers discriminate against those with criminal records, even if they don’t accept this.

Although employers express willingness to hire people with criminal records, evidence shows that having a criminal record reduces your chances. It is found that employers discriminate among the candidates for the job opportunity.

Only half of the job opportunities are provided to felons as compared to other candidates. To implement fair hiring best practices, companies should remove questions regarding criminal convictions from job applications.

Myth 2: Hiring People with Criminal Records Increases Risk.

FACT: No studies support the idea that formerly incarcerated people are responsible for a greater security risk.

Mainly, organizations in New York are protected from negligent hiring lawsuits. Insurers provide coverage to an employer to hire the justice-impacted applicants. Additionally, the bond ensures businesses for free insurance by the federal government for any loss of money or property while hiring someone with a criminal record.

Myth 3: Hiring People with Criminal Records Augment Expenses.

FACT: Well, many researchers have found that employees with criminal histories remain on the job at higher rates than those without criminal records.

There is no denying that better retention can reduce an employer’s recruitment and training costs. Some organizations offer insurance and tax incentives for employers who hire people with criminal records, protecting against real or perceived risks of loss. It is helpful to manage the federal tax credits for hiring people with criminal records.

Myth 4: People with Criminal Records are Less Reliable.

FACT: Employees with criminal records tend to stay loyal to the employers who hire them.

In recent studies, it is proven that human resources managers found that employees with criminal records remain more loyal to the companies as compared to those without a criminal background. Employers, on the other hand, are also happy with their performance.

Myth 5: People with Criminal Records are Likely to Commit Crime Again.

FACT: People certainly change! Research also shows that people with criminal records who are employed are less likely to commit a crime again.

Employees with a criminal background are busy increasing workplace productivity and it helps them to forget their past. Even the organizations can help control their actions by setting up several events. Employees should be given opportunities to connect to quality work and build the economic stability necessary to pursue the opportunity.

Let’s have a look at the broad range of other common stereotypes in society regarding felons:

  • Hiring people with criminal records will result in underperformance
  • There is a skill gap between the employees
  • Felons lack in benefits & perks of holidays
  • People with a criminal record will have more work stress
  • Individuals after felony conviction are offered less salary as compared to others

The Bottom Lines

There are several myths and facts based on how people are treated after incarceration. The myths and stereotypes need to be busted.

However, some rules and policies have definitely helped felons rise for their rights. Now, equal job opportunities are given to felons, irrespective of their background and crime! It is high time to avail the chance and make the most out of it.

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