Louisiana's HB 707 Prohibits Employers From Considering Charges That Didn't Result In Convictions

Many people don't realize that if they've been arrested but weren't formally convicted, that arrest record still remains. Anyone can see it, from landlords to neighbors to employers. Even if those records mean nothing about you or your actions, many will still discriminate simply because the criminal record exists. Fortunately. states across the country are doing their part to de-stigmatize this type of information obtained by background checks.
Under the newly passed House Bull 707, employers in Louisiana may no longer consider an arrest record or charge that didn't end with a conviction. Act 406 requires employers to individually assess criminal records to see if there's a direct relationship between the records and the job itself. This means that if a record didn't end up in a conviction and has absolutely no relationship with one's ability to perform a job, they cannot deny them the position solely because of the criminal records. Additionally, the new law allows applicants to see the background checks conducted by the employers if they want to do so.

This law is overall a huge win for proponents of criminal justice reform. It's about time the government stepped in to reassess unfair hiring policies that punish people with criminal records, many of whom were simply in the wrong place at the wrong time.

If you're having a hard time finding a job because of an arrest or charge that didn't result in a conviction, or even one that did result in a conviction, we may be able to help with a fast and easy expunction. We make it affordable for you to rid your record of eligible charges; get in touch with us today to learn more!