Colorado Chance to Compete Law

CO Helps Employees by Banning the Box

This time last year, Colorado banned the box for employers with 11 or more employees. This time next year, all employers are required to ban the box.

What does this mean?

The Colorado Chance to Compete Act intends to help people with a criminal record enjoy opportunities in employment. Prior to this legislation, job applicants had to state whether or not they’ve been convicted of a crime.

This law aligns with the “ban the box” movement, a nationwide initiative that strives to help job candidates access employment opportunities without their criminal history holding them back. Banning the box essentially means removing the conviction history question from job applications and delaying background checks until later in the process.

It’s important to note, however, that banning the box doesn’t mean eliminating any inquiries about an applicant’s criminal record. Employers can ask an applicant about their conviction history during an interview and on other forms and documents outside of the initial application. Colorado’s Chance to Compete Act only places limits on initial job applications so people can have a competing chance of getting a job.

Effective September 1, 2019, the Chance to Compete Act prohibits employers with 11 or more employees from:

• Stating in an advertisement or on an application for a position of employment that a person with a criminal history may not apply for the position
• Inquiring into an applicant’s criminal history on an initial application for a position of employment
• Requiring the disclosure of an applicant’s criminal history on an initial application for a position of employment

On September 1, 2021, this law will apply to all employers.

If you are applying for a job that employs 11 or more people, it’s best to get some clarity from our Denver employment lawyers before submitting your application. We will help ensure that your application is not in violation of Colorado’s Chance to Compete laws and answer any questions you may have regarding your job interview.

It’s best to be prepared when heading into your potential new job and prevent your criminal record from interfering with your chances of getting hired. Our legal team is here to help you grow and succeed in your employment, so please contact (303) 732-5048 for the legal counsel you deserve.