On Monday Governor Doug Ducey issued an Executive Order instructing all state agencies to adopt new hiring procedures intended to provide a second chance and increased employment opportunities to Arizonans who have served their time and been released. Under the new policy, known as the “Second Chance Box,” state agencies will delay questions related to an applicant’s criminal record until after the initial stages of interviewing, ensuring all individuals receive full and fair consideration for job openings.
The Executive Order issued the governor states that an estimated 1.5 million Arizona adults have arrests or convictions on their records. The order also points out that offenders who find employment following their release are less likely to end up back in prison, saving taxpayer resources and boosting Arizona’s economy.
Research shows that having a criminal conviction reduces the likelihood of receiving a call-back for a job interview by nearly fifty percent.
The Executive Order directs the Department of Administration to establish hiring procedures that will be used by all state agencies. Under the new policy, state agencies will not inquire about an applicant’s criminal record until an applicant has submitted an application and received an initial interview.