Legislation would require fair hiring in PA

(Harrisburg) — Proposed legislation would benefit job seekers who may have been charged but not convicted of a crime.

The bill would prohibit employers from inquiring about an applicant’s juvenile or summary offenses, if the case did not result in a conviction. Bill sponsor, state Representative Leslie Acosta, says it’s designed to give those who may have a criminal past the chance to move on with their lives.

“If someone applies and there is something in the history that was a misdemeaner or summary offense, or any related criminal history,  it inhibits that individual from possibly obtaining that job, even if they have the qualifications,” Acosta said.

Under the bill, an applicant’s felony or misdemeanor conviction can be sought if the job carries certain security requirements under federal or state law.