Life in prison is meant to be difficult. But it doesn’t always get better once you’re out. Re-entering offenders often have a tough time finding employment, even when they are motivated and able to work. But “ban the box” – a popular policy aimed at helping ex-offenders find jobs – doesn’t help many ex-offenders, and actually decreases employment for black and Hispanic men who don’t have criminal records. This is a classic case of unintended consequences. We should repeal “ban the box” and focus on better alternatives.

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