NFIB Ohio State Director Jared Weiser testified before the Ohio Senate Workforce Development Committee to express opposition to Senate Bill 143. The bill would prevent employers from asking about an applicant’s criminal background on initial job applications. According to Weiser, this legislation imposes a uniform mandate that removes flexibility for small businesses and introduces additional regulations and liability.
Weiser stated, “Many small businesses already have highly successful second-chance hiring programs, helping individuals with past convictions rebuild their lives. This is because small businesses have more flexibility in hiring choices and can typically move faster than their larger counterparts. However, we strongly oppose government-mandated one-size-fits-all approaches, like those found in Senate Bill 143.”
Senate Bill 143 also proposes several compliance requirements during the hiring process. Employers would need to provide written notice of disqualifying convictions to applicants and allow a five-day period for applicants to dispute the information. If disputed, employers must then give another five days for applicants to submit evidence supporting their claim that the background check was incorrect. After these steps, employers are required to send a final decision in writing and include instructions on how applicants can file complaints with the Ohio Civil Rights Commission.
Weiser concluded his testimony by saying, “The bottom line is small businesses believe in second chances. We should reward small employers who make second-chance hires, not regulate them. We are committed to working on practical, incentive-based solutions that open doors for individuals with criminal backgrounds. This way we can accomplish the sponsor’s goals without red tape and increased liability for small employers.”
Additional updates on legislation affecting small businesses are expected.
