Biden’s Executive Order Promotes Hiring of Individuals with Criminal Histories in Government Jobs
In a move aimed at promoting inclusivity and providing opportunities for people with criminal records, President Joe Biden has signed an executive order encouraging the hiring of individuals with criminal histories in government jobs. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has issued two reports supporting this initiative, emphasizing the need to assist vulnerable workers and promote fair employment practices.
Under this new directive, government agencies are required to extensively publicize their intent to hire individuals with criminal conduct issues during background checks. Since the executive order was implemented, applicants with questionable histories have had a higher chance of progressing through the hiring process for government positions. The EEOC urges employers to take a comprehensive approach, considering mitigating circumstances when evaluating an applicant’s suitability for a role.
While the intention behind the executive order is commendable, critics argue that it reflects a liberal tactic that prioritizes diversity based solely on skin color. They assert that by favoring people of color and minorities with criminal records, qualified white individuals without criminal histories are being overlooked. True equity, they contend, lies in selecting the most qualified candidate regardless of race.
Responding to these concerns, the EEOC points out that African Americans and Latinos are disproportionately incarcerated, an issue that requires attention. However, critics argue that focusing solely on incarceration rates fails to address the underlying social factors contributing to these disparities.
The EEOC’s reports delve deeper into the timing of background checks during the hiring process. The agency found that delaying arrest and conviction record inquiries until after a conditional job offer enhances the protection of applicants with criminal records. Policies such as ban-the-box, which restrict criminal background checks until later stages of the recruitment process, have resulted in an increase in meritorious complaints.
During the years 2018 to 2020, only 22 percent of civil service job applications contained a criminal history, with a mere two percent receiving negative recommendations leading to disqualification. The EEOC’s findings highlight that the majority of determinations regarding applicants with criminal conduct were favorable, allowing them to secure federal government employment.
However, the EEOC believes that more can be done to support individuals with past criminal conduct. They recommend that federal agencies widely publicize their efforts to hire individuals with criminal histories, as stable employment can help overcome barriers and facilitate successful reintegration into society.
This executive order by President Biden, hailed by its supporters, aims to provide second chances to individuals who have rehabilitated themselves. However, critics argue that an exclusive focus on race detracts from addressing other social issues and hinders true equity and inclusion. Debate on these issues continues as the government seeks to create a fair and inclusive workforce, balancing the importance of diversity with the need to hire the most qualified individuals.
