As a reminder, at the beginning of March 22, 2025, employers of all sizes will be prohibited from requiring an applicant or employee to provide a copy of their criminal history record obtained under the rules and regulations of the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS).

• Employers should review and, if necessary, update their hiring practices and policies to comply with this new regulation by March 22, 2025.

• Ensure hiring decisions are made without requiring or considering DCJS criminal history records.

Criminal History Discrimination:

• It remains illegal to deny someone a license or job solely based on their criminal record unless it violates specific correction law provisions.

• Employers are encouraged to consider relevant factors before deciding not to hire someone with a criminal history.

Actions Required:

• Employers should review and update their hiring policies to ensure compliance with the new regulations.

• Train hiring managers and relevant staff on the updated policies to prevent inadvertent violations.

For additional information:

• New York State’s Clean Slate Act
• Division of Criminal Justice Services
• New York Clean Slate Act Will Seal Certain Old Criminal Records (VensureHR)
• NY SB S940 / NY AB A6637

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