What CT Employers and Workers Should Know about ‘Ban the Box’ laws

12 Jul What CT Employers and Workers Should Know about ‘Ban the Box’ laws

While ‘Ban the Box’ legislation has been around for several years across the United States, Connecticut has just adopted the practice as of June 1^st, 2016.  What does this mean for Connecticut employers and workers?  Let’s start with the basics and explain what it means to Ban the Box.

The term ‘Ban the Box’ was adapted from the previous look of standard employment applications which included a check box indicating whether a potential employee has ever been charged with a crime.  In an effort to quell the theory that ex-criminals should not be a part of the workforce, these laws have been passed banning the ability for employers to use that criteria during the application process when deciding who to hire.

Ban the Box laws do not mean that an employer cannot inquire at all about previous arrests, convictions or otherwise.  It simply means that an employer cannot inquire on the application itself, but needs to wait until the interview process to ask.  Each applicant should have a fair start when applying for employment.  The point of it all is that a person’s criminal history should not be a prime indicator of what type of worker they will be.

Once the application has been submitted and the employer has had a chance to review it, the interview process can determine whether or not an applicant would be a good fit for employment. Employers and applicants seeking more information on Ban the Box laws can contact the Connecticut Labor Commissioner.

How do the new Ban the Box laws effect your business insurance?  For the most part, your insurance will not be effected at all.  However, if you would like to discuss it further or need more clarification regarding your business insurance policy, please call us.  We would love to answer your questions and discuss your business insurance needs.