The Waterloo Commission on Human Rights is pushing for an ordinance that would bar employers from including questions about criminal histories on job applications. The Waterloo-Cedar Falls Courier reports that the agency is asking City Council to once again consider the ordinance that is designed to ensure applicants with criminal records get a fair chance at employment. The commission’s proposal also applies to private employers, which is a less common policy nationally. Employers would still be allowed to conduct a criminal background check before extending a job offer. Commission Executive Director Abraham Funchess says the measure seeks to eliminate disparities in the city. Some council members expressed support for the measure, while others say they want legal input. The council turned down similar ordinances in 2012 and 2015.
