In “New 2026 minimum wage, laws take effect” (Jan. 1, Northwest), The Seattle Occasions described a number of newly efficient state legal guidelines. Home Invoice 1747 must be added to the listing. This expands the 2018 Honest Likelihood Act that stops employers from asking a couple of felony historical past on job functions.
Underneath the brand new legislation, employers might do a background verify on an applicant solely after giving the applicant a conditional job supply. If the background verify exhibits a conviction historical past, the employer should have a reputable enterprise cause to disclaim the person the job. A conviction in itself is inadequate.
The legislation seeks to offer candidates a extra individualized, correct evaluation of their {qualifications} and employers a greater set of evaluation instruments. Among the many elements employers want to think about are the crime’s relevance to the job; the seriousness of the crime and variety of crimes; the time handed because the conviction; and the applicant’s subsequent good conduct, work expertise and coaching. Employers might not contemplate a non-pending arrest or a juvenile document.
Over 2 million folks with conviction histories stay in Washington state. They want good jobs and employers want certified employees. This legislation will assist each.
Amy J. Stephson, Seattle
