BROWARD COUNTY, FL – Businesses working for Broward County can no longer ask job applicants about their criminal history until that person has been selected as a finalist and has interviewed for the position. 

The ordinance, passed by Broward Commissioners, applies to vendors who are seeking a County contract in the amount of $100,000 or more.  Businesses vying for eligible county contracts will have to certify in writing that hiring practices will follow the terms of the new law.  

The ordinance was sponsored by Broward Commissioner Dale V.C. Holness and co-sponsored by all County Commissioners. 

“An arrest record or conviction makes it very hard for a person to find a job, even if they are the most qualified person for that position.  We also know that minorities, particularly Blacks and Hispanics, are more likely to be arrested and given longer sentences than Whites for the same nonviolent crime. Many people are arrested, and no criminal charges are filed, or there is no evidence of criminal activity. This gives people a second chance and a better chance to find employment,” said Commissioner Holness.

The ordinance cites National Law Project estimates that 70 million American adults have arrests or convictions in their past that can adversely impact their ability to find employment.  It also notes that the Fair Chance Act has been passed into law by the federal government and prohibits federal contractors from asking applicants seeking employment on a federal contract about their criminal history until after a conditional job offer has been made. 

The ordinance requirements would not be applicable if specific criminal screening practices are required by state or federal law, if the contract is exempt from the Broward County Procurement Code or is standardized, if the vendor is a governmental entity, or if the Board determines that it is in the best interest of the County to waive the requirements.

The ordinance follows the “Ban the Box” law passed by the Commission in June 2016. That ordinance prohibits Broward County Government from asking about a job applicants’ criminal history until they are finalist for a county position.

March 17, 2021
MEDIA CONTACT:
Kimberly Maroe
Public Information Manager
Broward County Commission
(954) 357-8053
kmaroe@broward.org