Louisiana is anticipated to become the latest state to enact statewide protections for applicants with criminal backgrounds under the well-known “ban the box” movement. The bill, HB 266, recently passed both houses of the Louisiana Legislature and is currently awaiting approval from Governor John Bel Edwards, who is expected to sign the bill into law. Louisiana private employers will not be affected by the law as written. This bill only affects state employers, which are defined as “any department, office, division, agency, commission, board, committee, or other organizational unit of the state.” Once enacted, state employers may not inquire about a prospective employee’s criminal history at any time prior to an initial interview. If the prospective employer does not conduct an interview, then the employer may not require the applicant to disclose a criminal conviction prior to making a conditional offer of employment.

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