Publications
Alert

Philadelphia City Council Passes "Ban The Box" Ordinance

Employment, Benefits & Labor Alert

On March 31, 2011, Philadelphia City Council approved a highly controversial "ban the box" ordinance. The ordinance generally prohibits City agencies, as well as private employers with 10 or more employees in Philadelphia, from inquiring about or requiring any person to disclose any criminal convictions during the application process - such as by using a yes-or-no "checkbox" on an initial job application - or before or during the applicant's first interview. Additionally, certain inquiries relating to arrests and criminal accusations made against applicants are prohibited. The ordinance is designed to assist in the successful reintegration of formerly incarcerated individuals. Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter is expected to sign the bill which would take effect in 90 days. With this ordinance, Philadelphia will join the growing list of cities and states that have enacted similar "ban the box" laws. Employers should alert individuals involved in the hiring process and consider revising employment applications to comply with these laws.

If you would like further information about the Philadelphia ordinance or any similar "ban the box" law that may affect your company, please contact a member of Blank Rome LLP's Employment, Benefits and Labor Practice Group.

Notice: The purpose of this alert is to review the latest developments which are of interest to clients of Blank Rome LLP. The information contained herein is abridged from legislation, court decisions, and administrative rulings and should not be construed as legal advice or opinion, and is not a substitute for the advice of counsel.