6.1.1 The Problem

Many people are unable to get jobs and occupational licenses due to pervasive discrimination against those with arrest or conviction records. It is often not illegal for employers to ask about or consider someone’s criminal record, even if it’s old or unrelated to the job.1  It is not illegal to fire even a good employee for lying on an application and failing to disclose a record. Some employers are affirmatively required by law to deny jobs or licenses to people with certain criminal records. Given the state’s punishment practices, huge numbers of able-bodied formerly incarcerated annually join the ranks of the unemployed. These systemic practices have a disproportionate impact on people of color. You may be able to help.

• 1See La. R.S. 23:291.