Los Angeles County is setting a new standard for hiring practices with the introduction of the Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers. The ordinance, which aims to bolster rights and enforcement for individuals with a criminal history in the job market, was unanimously passed by the LA County Board of Supervisors. This local legislation aligns with California’s Fair Chance Act and goes a step further in the fight to eliminate employment barriers faced by previously incarcerated individuals.
The new ordinance is set to directly affect private employers in unincorporated areas of LA County, where businesses employing five or more people are now required to offer a fair shot at employment without the stigma of a criminal record overshadowing a candidate's qualifications. This move seeks to robustly enforce and expand upon current state law, which makes it illegal for employers to initially ask about an applicant's conviction history. Supervisors championing the ordinance acknowledge the need to not just passively remove barriers but to actively ensure fair hiring practices are followed.
In a statement obtained by Los Angeles County Newsroom, Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell articulated the potential community and economic benefits, stating, "Our local economy and communities benefit from more residents having equitable access to opportunity – this must include our fellow residents who have served their time and are ready to work." Her words were echoed by Supervisor Hilda L. Solis, who emphasized that the integration of individuals with a criminal past into the workforce is essential for a thriving and inclusive local economy.
Enforcement and educational efforts will be spearheaded by the Department of Consumer and Business Affairs’ Office of Labor Equity. The county has vowed to not only uphold these standards within its practices but also make a rigorous effort to educate businesses on compliance. In addition, concrete numbers seem to back up these policy initiatives; the Fair Chance Hiring Campaign has reportedly led to the employment of 977 justice-impacted individuals in permanent jobs. In the pursuit to further advance these efforts, LA County’s ordinance will begin to take effect later this year, signaling a significant leap towards creating a more equitable job market for all residents.
With justice-impacted individuals often facing significant challenges when re-entering the workforce, this ordinance represents a critical step in reaffirming their right to fair employment opportunities. "Don't let that criminal record be the reason you deny someone an opportunity. Because you're missing out on very, very hard workers. People who are very loyal to the mission, the work, to their colleagues," Carmen Garcia, Executive Director at Root & Rebound and a fair chance employer, told LA County Newsroom. Garcia's statement underpins a broader sentiment that skills and loyalty are often overlooked due to past convictions.
The ordinance is scheduled to be fully operational by September 2024. It heralds a transformative approach to employment and, according to county officials, represents a win-win for businesses and the community alike. With this pivot toward inclusive hiring, LA County stands as a testament to the belief that second chances can lead to meaningful economic contributions and reduced recidivism.
