Hostetter, Glod: Workforce options beyond 'ban-the-box' can help offenders

With President Obama's announcement instructing federal agencies to "ban the box" on employment applications, a debate has risen over whether ex-offenders should be required to inform employers about their criminal background.

In cities like Chicago and Baltimore, "ban the box" ordinances are resulting in unnecessary compliance procedures and administrative costs; not to mention the potential criminal and civil litigation to which these laws open small businesses.

In addition to nondisclosure, an option allowing former convicts to petition the court to have their records sealed and legal indemnity for employers and hiring managers, Texas nonprofit programs are empowering offenders to be competitive applicants in the hiring process.

Thanks to the support, Larry was hired by a scrap metal business where he excelled on the job - receiving five raises and a promotion within 90 days of his hire date.

Since his promotion, Larry has been able to provide jobs for 19 other former inmates.