Our readers may recall that back in 2016, Missouri Governor Jay Nixon signed Executive Order 16-04 to implement a ban the box policy for government entities. The law gives individuals a fair chance to apply to job positions without being required to disclose their criminal history. On February 1, 2018, the city council of Kansas City, Missouri passed a similar legislation.
Under Ordinance 180034, effective June 9, 2018, employers with six or more employees are prohibited from basing a hiring decision or promotion on an individual’s criminal history. Additionally, employers are prohibited from inquiring into a prospective employee’s criminal history until after it has been determined that the applicant is qualified for the position, and the applicant has been interviewed. The new law does not apply to job positions where employers are required to exclude applicants with certain criminal convictions from employment due to local, state or federal law or regulation.
To stay compliant, Kansas City employers need to review and revise their employment applications. Employers must also make sure all personnel in charge of hiring new employees are aware of the new ban the box ordinance. Violations may result in monetary penalties and loss of business licensure. For more information, visit the City of Kansas City webpage.