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A few libraries in Oregon are hosting walk-in expungement clinics to help residents eliminate lower level criminal records.

Ongoing Clinics

A recent news article explained that libraries in the Dalles and Hood River areas are offering free expungement clinics. They are open on the first Tuesday and Thursday of each month from 2-5pm. Volunteers help attendees learn whether any of their convictions may be expunged and, if so, how to navigate the process.

Oregon legislators have passed laws that allow certain types of criminal records to be expunged. For each one, the person who has the record must wait a specified period before they are eligible. This can range from one to seven years depending on the severity of an offense. At the free clinics, volunteers explain these requirements and inform individuals about their best course of action.

What This Means For Employers

Organizations in Oregon and throughout the United States should understand that once a conviction is expunged, it is no longer publicly available. Those records may not be considered by hiring managers or others when they are making employment decisions about any individual. Each person who has a record expunged may then act as if it never occurred.

One of the best options for employers to avoid inadvertently reviewing expunged records is to work with a Consumer Reporting Agency (CRA) which is accredited by the Professional Background Screening Association (PBSA). CRAs must undergo a thorough audit and demonstrate that they follow reasonable procedures to only provide current, reportable records before they may earn accreditation.

Second Chance Laws

Organizations in the U.S. should further be aware of an ever-growing second chance movement. States, counties and cities all over America are passing laws designed to help people with criminal records find employment, housing and other necessities. Numerous studies have shown that having any type of record can make it difficult for a person to rejoin society.

These laws vary by location, but key examples of what they hope to achieve include:

• Banning the box – meaning some laws prohibit employers from asking people to check a box on a job application if they have any type of criminal record.
• Requiring organizations to hold off on running background checks until they otherwise determine an applicant is eligible for hiring.
• Establishing processes for people to get certain types of criminal records expunged.
• Mandating that employers must individually assess any criminal records which are returned after a screening to determine whether they warrant an adverse action such as denial of employment.

Employment Background Checks

Although second chance laws are becoming increasingly common, employers everywhere are still strongly encouraged to run comprehensive background checks before bringing on employees, contractors or volunteers. These reports help hiring managers make informed decisions, maintain safe workplaces and conduct due diligence practices. We think of them as economical insurance policies that help protect organizations and the public they serve.

If you represent an organization that is in need of employment background checks, please contact us. Our friendly, experienced team can help you customize screening packages that suit your needs, comply with relevant laws and adhere to industry standards.  Based in California, we are available to assist you Monday through Friday from 5am to 6pm PT.