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A proposed bill would allow people who have arrests and convictions to be considered for jobs within California's Department of Social Services.

About The Bill

Assemblymember Chris Holden introduced Assembly Bill 1720 (AB1720), which would “create a fair chance for people with arrest and conviction records to access caregiving and other jobs governed by the Department of Social Services (DSS).” The bill is intended to update existing law and try to ensure that people are not denied employment at the State Department of Social Services because they have minor, unrelated convictions.

AB1720 would require the department to:

• Post information on its website concerning applications, including the total number of applicants who submitted fingerprints for the purpose of providing criminal record information, and the number of applicants who had a non-exemptible conviction or who were granted a clearance or a criminal record exemption, as specified.
• Publish data in aggregate and without any personally identifying information.

It would also prohibit the department from requiring individuals to disclose their criminal history information during the initial phase of applying for a license at certain residential facilities, child daycare facilities, and home health agencies.

Laws For Individuals With Criminal Records

According to the bill, if criminal records are returned, then the department may:

• Deny an application if the conviction is for something other than a minor traffic violation.
• Cease processing the criminal record information until the conclusion of a trial if the case is still pending.
• Grant exemptions and permit licenses under certain circumstances.

Learn more.

The Bill’s Sponsor

Assemblymember Chris Holden said: “As we are creating a better future of tomorrow, we must allow for opportunities for our current generation to thrive. The exemption process is burdensome for both DSS and exemption applicants and can take more than 75 days to complete, that would mean 75 more days of unemployment – we just cannot afford that.”

The Second Chance Movement

Bills like the proposed AB1720 are part of a growing Second Chance movement in the United States. These laws are designed to help people with minor or outdated convictions find new opportunities for employment, housing and other necessities.

Millions of Americans have criminal records. Numerous studies have concluded that people who have any type of conviction often have a difficult time reintegrating into society. Helping these individuals find work is expected to reduce the rate of recidivism, create safer communities and give employers are larger applicant pool.

Running Background Checks

While second chance laws are intended to help people with criminal records, it is still essential for employers to take steps to ensure they are hiring people who can be deemed safe and not a risk to property, other employees and the public. A key part of that is running criminal background checks. These reports empower organizations to make informed decisions, conduct due diligence and create safe working environments.

If your business needs employment background checks, please contact us. Our experienced team can help you customize screening packages for any position. We are available to assist you Monday through Friday from 5am to 6pm PT.