Top FAQs on Criminal History Inquiries, Ban the Box and Fair Chance Laws

Many states and local jurisdictions have enacted laws that restrict employers from asking an applicant about their criminal background on application forms. Some go even further, restricting these types of questions until after the employer makes a conditional job offer and/or requiring employers to take certain steps before considering an individual’s criminal history. These restrictions are often referred to as "ban the box" or “fair chance” laws.