WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 49

Employment practice, unlawful to inquire from job applicant information relating to arrests or conviction of crimes, criminal record, with exceptions

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Bobby Singleton

Alabama bill prohibits employers from asking job applicants about arrest or criminal history, with exceptions for sensitive positions, aiming to reduce hiring discrimination against people with criminal records.

Currently Indefinitely Postponed
#labor&employment
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 49

Legislative bill overview

SB 49 would prohibit Alabama employers from asking job applicants about their arrest or criminal conviction history during the hiring process, with certain exceptions for positions involving public safety, vulnerable populations, or sensitive roles. The bill represents a "ban the box" approach, which delays criminal background inquiries until later in the hiring process or after a conditional job offer.

Why is this important

Criminal records create substantial employment barriers for millions of people, affecting recidivism rates and economic reintegration. This policy directly impacts hiring practices for the state's workforce and influences whether individuals with criminal histories can access employment opportunities—a key factor in reducing re-offense rates and poverty.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of exceptions: Determining which job categories warrant criminal history inquiries (public safety, schools, financial institutions) and whether the bill's exceptions are sufficiently narrow or overly broad
  • Employer liability concerns: Business groups may worry about negligent hiring lawsuits if they cannot screen for criminal records upfront, versus civil rights advocates' concerns that broad exceptions undermine the policy's intent
  • Implementation timing: Disagreement over when employers can actually inquire about criminal history (immediately after conditional offer, after background check begins, etc.) and administrative burden of sequential hiring processes

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.