Commemorating a significant milestone, the Seattle Office of Labor Standards (OLS) has announced the 12-year anniversary of Seattle's Fair Chance Employment Ordinance, an initiative set in motion on November 1, 2013, aimed at fostering equitable hiring practices. Over the years, this ordinance has recovered $75,174.53 for 123 workers, clearly marking its impact on the job market for individuals with conviction or arrest records.
According to a report by the OLS, BlueCrew, LLC dba BlueCrew Staffing, LLC recently settled allegations of ordinance violation by paying $11,763.74 to eight aggrieved parties and additional fines. Having accused of categorically excluding applicants with any arrest or conviction record from any job in Seattle, the OLS had found that the company failed to provide a proper response after an applicant alerted to their rights under the ordinance and retaliated against an applicant, among other breaches.
The FCE Ordinance prohibits categorical job ad exclusions based on criminal history and requires employers not to perform criminal background checks until after an initial applicant screening. "The FCE law empowers individuals and ultimately strengthens our community by promoting fair employment opportunities, helping to reduce recidivism, and addressing racial disparities in the criminal justice system," OLS Director Steven Marchese told news.seattle.gov. With the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup and the expected job growth, Marchese emphasized the importance of continued attention to fair hiring practices.
Beyond its economic impacts, the ordinance is applauded for its social significance. "For too many people impacted by the criminal legal system, opportunity was never given. It had to be fought for," Civil Survival Policy Manager, Kelly Olson stated as per OLS. Olson praised Seattle's initiative for opening doors and showing what fairness in hiring can look like while expressing gratitude toward OLS's lead with equity and belief in individuals' potential.
Interested parties looking to learn more about the Fair Chance Employment Ordinance or seeking assistance can reach out to the OLS. Workers and the public can call 206-256-5297, send an email to [email protected], or fill out an inquiry form via the OLS website. Likewise, employers seeking compliance assistance can contact the same number, email [email protected], or submit their inquiries online.
