Wake County helps those with criminal convictions find work

A criminal history, even one that was brief and happened in a person’s youth, follows someone the rest of his or her life. The record is always there, and the Internet makes it all the easier for anyone to delve into someone’s past. But should local governments require job seekers to check a box on applications “yes” or “no” on criminal convictions other than traffic violations? Raleigh and Durham do not have such boxes, and now Wake County is ready to join them. That’s as it should be.

For one thing, background checks will continue to be conducted, and obviously criminal histories would show up there. And savvy job applicants are going to get in front of such checks anyway and tell prospective employers in government about their past problems.

“Past” is the important term here. Many people might have had problems in their youth they’ve overcome, and that road to redemption has made them better people. They might be outstanding workers, determined to do their best. It’s not fair that those people should begin the application process with something that makes them and their possible employers uncomfortable. A criminal history is best explained at length, not in a check on a box on an application form.

The de-emphasis on this kind of thing is a positive development for all.

This story was originally published April 18, 2016 at 7:32 PM with the headline "Wake County helps those with criminal convictions find work."