The Buckeye Institute testified on April 14 before the Ohio Senate Workforce Development Committee in support of policies in House Bill 268, which aim to make it easier for formerly incarcerated individuals to find employment.
Supporters say that helping people with criminal records secure jobs after serving their sentences is important for public safety. Employment has been shown to be a key factor in reducing recidivism, and the proposed changes would allow those released from prison to obtain certificates of qualification for employment (CQEs) sooner than under current law.
Alex M. Certo, senior associate legal fellow at The Buckeye Institute, said lawmakers should be commended for creating the “now-successful” CQE program and added that “by helping the formerly incarcerated obtain CQEs sooner, House Bill 268 will reduce the likelihood of recidivism by promoting stable employment.” Certo also said that although “helping those with a criminal history is not always easy,” removing unnecessary government barriers will help them “get their lives and careers back on track.”
House Bill 268 would let felons apply for a CQE one year after release from incarceration instead of waiting until all post-release supervision ends. According to Certo’s testimony, this change builds on previous reforms passed by Ohio’s General Assembly intended to promote justice and public safety.
A certificate of qualification reassures employers by providing liability coverage if they hire someone who holds one. However, courts only grant these certificates after reviewing evidence and determining that applicants do not pose an unreasonable risk. The process does not automatically guarantee employment or licensing; recipients must still meet other qualifications.
According to the official website, The Buckeye Institute depends on private funding from individuals, corporations, and foundations. It has offices on Capitol Square in Columbus, Ohio; works to promote free-market public policy through research and data analysis; concentrates primarily on Ohio while promoting free-market ideas nationally; aids policymakers with research; and is classified as a nonprofit under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.
