Kalamazoo Seeks To Curb Criminal History Questions On Job Applications

KALAMAZOO (WWJ/AP) - An updated policy says some businesses that do work with Kalamazoo will be asked to show they don't discriminate against job applicants if they have a criminal history.

Businesses seeking to provide more than $25,000 in work to the city are among those covered, according to The Kalamazoo Gazette. Specifically, they'll have to indicate they don't have questions about criminal history on initial application forms.

Commissioners voted 6-0 Monday on the proposal.

The proposal's supporters packed the city commission chambers and hung banners in the chambers that stated, "Why should I be punished my whole life?" "Thank you city of Kalamazoo" and "Fair Chance for All," the name of the group pushing for the change.

In 2011, Kalamazoo eliminated a question about felony convictions on applications for city employment.

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