Doesn Denial Of Employment Create Economic Hardship For Convicted Felons?
Yes, however, employers also have a legal duty to co-workers and third parties to provide a safe and secure workplace. A person denied employment on the basis of a job-related conviction is simply unqualified for the position. The denial is not one of all employment, only the position for which the applicant applied. If the applicant was convicted of a serious, job-related crime, denial of employment is a consequence resulting from the applicant’s actions. A conviction for an alcohol-related offense does not limit employment as a dock worker but the same conviction has greater implications for a school bus driver. The employer has an obligation to provide a safe workplace and failure to do so creates a significant degree of liability.
