Philadelphia Employment Lawyers Discuss New Jersey Opportunity to Compete Act

New Jersey employers may find it necessary to update employment and hiring policies to ensure compliance with the New Jersey Opportunity to Compete Act (OTCA), which went into effect on December 8, 2015. Similar so-called “ban-the-box” laws have also been enacted in a handful of other states including Hawaii, Illinois, Massachusetts, Minnesota and Rhode Island.

The OTCA is intended to create opportunities for people with criminal records by limiting the use of background checks in hiring practices. The OTCA bars employers from inquiring about an applicant’s criminal history until after a first interview has been completed. Once a first interview has concluded, employers have the right to inquire about criminal history.

For specific information regarding compliance with and exemptions to New Jersey’s “ban-the-box” law, call Philadelphia employment lawyers at Sidkoff, Pincus & Green at 215-574-0600 or contact us online. Our team of competent and well-regarded attorneys is well-qualified to handle any legal matters pertaining to employment law.