Kansas City Passes Landmark Ordinance for Criminal Justice Reform

News Summary

Kansas City has enacted a new ordinance to protect individuals with criminal backgrounds, making it illegal for employers and landlords to discriminate against them. This measure, passed by a 9-3 vote, positions Kansas City as the second major U.S. city to recognize formerly incarcerated individuals as a protected class, following Atlanta. The law aims to promote fairness in employment and housing, building on previous measures while acknowledging the challenges faced by the 70 to 100 million Americans with criminal records.

Kansas City Takes a Bold Step for Fairness and Opportunity

In a significant move to enhance the lives of many, Kansas City has officially passed a groundbreaking ordinance aimed at protecting the rights of individuals with criminal backgrounds. This new law, which received a 9-3 vote of approval from the City Council, is set to shake things up in the realms of employment, housing, and business practices in the city.

Leading the Charge

Kansas City now stands proudly as the second major city in the United States, following Atlanta, to recognize formerly incarcerated individuals as a protected class. With this new legislation, people who have faced the challenges of imprisonment will no longer have to endure discrimination based solely on their pasts. The ordinance adds these individuals to an already impressive list of protected classes in the city that includes race, religion, and even sexual orientation.

What’s in the New Law?

So, what exactly does this ordinance do? Well, it makes it illegal for employers and landlords to discriminate against individuals simply because of their criminal history. Of course, there are some exceptions, particularly when required by state or federal laws that necessitate background checks.

The city is taking a firm stance on this issue, building on the 2018 “ban the box” initiative, which already prohibited employers from asking about criminal history on initial job applications. The new ordinance takes it a step further, pushing for a more comprehensive evaluation process. Employers and landlords will now be required to assess applications using factors like the age of the applicant at the time of the offense, their rehabilitation efforts, and their conduct since then.

Why This Matters

The importance of this ordinance can’t be overstated. A report highlights a striking statistic: between 70 million and 100 million Americans carry criminal records. The barriers that come with these records can be daunting, particularly when it comes to securing employment. In fact, research shows that 69% of convicted felons return to prison within two years if they can’t find a job. In contrast, a remarkable 77% who manage to secure full-time work stay out of prison. Clearly, employment opportunities are crucial in breaking the cycle of reoffending.

Rev. Thomas James from the Metro Organization for Racial and Economic Equity has mentioned that the city is stepping up to provide much-needed protections against discrimination for those with criminal records.

Concerns and Considerations

However, not everyone is on board with the new measures. Some council members expressed concerns about the potential vagueness of the ordinance’s language and the possibility of unintended consequences, especially for small businesses. It’s a complex issue that carries significant implications for business owners and their hiring practices.

Employers still maintain the right to decline hiring individuals based on their criminal records if it’s legally mandated or if that record directly impacts job responsibilities. Likewise, landlords can reject applicants with specific criminal convictions if required by law or protective orders.

A Forward-Thinking Approach

As Kansas City implements this ordinance, the city’s civil rights and equal opportunity department will oversee its execution. They’ll be in charge of investigating complaints and ensuring that these new regulations are enforced. This step is essential in making sure that the spirit of the law is kept intact.

In addition to this ordinance, there is a broader movement underway across various states, including jurisdictions in Nevada, Oregon, and Arizona, that are looking into similar legislation to reduce barriers for individuals with criminal histories. There are even discussions happening at the federal level that could lead to stronger employment rights protections for this demographic.

A New Dawn for Second Chances

Kansas City’s ordinance is more than just a piece of legislation; it represents a renewed commitment to fairness and opportunity for all. By ensuring that those who have served their time are given a fair shot at finding housing and employment, the city is paving the way for brighter futures and second chances. It’s a step in the right direction, and many will feel the positive impact for years to come.