ST. CLOUD, Minn. - A new Minnesota law has taken effect that will prevent job applicants from having to disclose their criminal records on a job application.
Supporters say the law will give convicted felons a better shot at finding a decent job and turning their lives around. Some employees, however, say they're confused over how the law will work.
A St. Cloud Times report says the so-called "Ban the Box" law took effect Wednesday. It means felons will no longer have to check a box on job applications indicating they have criminal convictions.
That doesn't mean their background won't come up. Employers can still ask the question during an interview and can run background checks. But supporters say applicants can at least address the question, rather than be rejected from the outset.
