The Impact of Criminal Background Checks on Employment & Recidivism: Barriers to Employment for People with Criminal Records & Key Findings in the District of Columbia

• In Event: Criminal Background Checks: Impact on Employment & Recidivism

Abstract

This presentation will review how criminal background checks restrict access to the already limited number of jobs available to people with criminal records, describe the existing evidence on the job performance of people with and without criminal records and compare this evidence to existing policies. Research team also explores the impact of barriers to employment on recidivism. Also, presenters will provide a closer look at Urban’s analysis of criminal justice data in the District of Columbia to better understand the population of DC residents with criminal records and present their findings on which vulnerable groups are affected the most. In addition, the presentation will examine analysis of labor market data and examine the prevalence of background requirements among employers in the District of Columbia. Lastly, the implications for future research, policy and practice will be discussed.

Authors

• Marina Duane, The Urban Institute

• Mathew Lynch, Urban Institute