Employment credit check debate continues

credit checks in employment have been raging between authorities across the country for months now. It’s difficult enough finding a job in today’s economy. When pre-employment background checks add bad credit to the mix, it’s nearly impossible for many qualified candidates. An economic repression has left millions in financial trouble, but many argue that this should not reflect on their ability to perform a job. If job applicants are being refused due to their credit, then they are not earning money. If they’re not earning money, then their credit situation will get worse. It’s a vicious cycle that law makers across the country are trying to rectify – and the debate remains sustained. Ohio lawmakers have introduced a bill that would ban credit checks in employment decisions. State Rep. Alicia Reece, D-Cincinnati, said House Bill 131 is needed because nearly 65 percent of employers now use credit checks during the hiring process. Reece has heard from many people with financial difficulties who were surprised to learn a credit check was part of the hiring process. “They were qualified for various positions, had gone the rounds of interviews, passed the background checks,” she said. “Many of them had been laid off or had something happen medically — which put them in a tough situation, considering what has happened in the economy.” Five states have similar laws and 16 others are considering legislation. With Ohio adding itself to the mix, debates regarding the role of credit checks in pre-employment background screen are turning up thick and fast. No doubt we will have news on other states joining the mix soon.]]>