Haley McKeown: Checks needed for jobs

In regard to the April 18 editorial “Offering a chance”: I certainly disagree with the bulk of views listed.

Yes, there are some people who have criminal records for situations considered more minor than others, such as an underage drinking ticket or disturbing the peace. In those situations, I believe checking if someone has a criminal past is a bit excessive.

Where my problem lies is with those who have a criminal background due to charges such as rape or driving while intoxicated.

What I’m gathering from your editorial is that if someone who could potentially be a registered sex offender applies for a job with a children’s museum, he shouldn’t have to check a box explaining he has a record. Or if someone arrested for drinking and driving applies to be a Wake County bus driver, he/she would have the same application as someone with a perfect driving record. For certain crimes, there should be certain boxes.

While there are still background checks, it is a scary thought that this could allow many people to slip through the cracks and hold jobs they should never have the opportunity to have.

This story was originally published April 21, 2016 at 4:47 PM with the headline "Haley McKeown: Checks needed for jobs."