Norfolk to join “Ban the Box” Nationwide Initiative

The Business District Of Norfolk at 21st Street, Norfolk. photo: abhi ahmadadeen/BMLTV©

(BMLTV) NORFOLK VA, July 30, 2013 – Beginning September 1, 2013, the City of Norfolk will remove the question on the City’s job application related to an individual’s criminal conviction history.  Norfolk’s decision to “Ban the Box” removes the perception that a criminal history automatically disqualifies an applicant.

Under Norfolk’s current hiring practices, criminal history does not prevent an individual from being hired. Criminal history is evaluated on the gravity of the offense, the length of time since conviction, and whether it is applicable to the job.

The criminal history question will remain for certain positions including, but not limited to: public safety and those involving the care of children, the elderly or disabled.

As part of the hiring process, the City conducts national fingerprinting background checks and drug screenings on all new employees.