We want to pay taxes!!!!Senate Bill 671/House Bill 800
The State of Maryland should encourage all qualified applicants, including those with a prior criminal conviction history, to apply for State employment. The proposed legislation would remove the question from state job applications that asks applicants to check a box if they have ever been convicted a crime. Removing the question from the application simply allows applicants to get a foot in the door and prove their qualifications rather than be automatically dismissed because of a box they checked at the beginning of the process.
Out For Justice joined with Job Opportunities Task Force to support this very important piece of legislation by submitting oral and written testimony. SB 671 passed the Senate Finance Committee with a 9-2 vote. Unfortunately, the bill was sent back to committee before it could proceed on the Senate floor due to the fact that its cross file was killed in the House Appropriations Committee.
HB 800 received an unfavorable report from Appropriations.
OFJ is still working to get this bill passed. We will be hosting forums, meetings and events to build a support network of individuals who will join us in Annapolis in 2013 session.
Stay tuned!!!!