On Friday, August 19th, Emmy Williams and Ann Colloton with the Georgia Justice Project joined MAX to share how occupational licensing reforms could help more Georgians participate in the workforce and improve second chance hiring prospects with employers.
In discussing how individuals with a criminal record represent an untapped pool of quality employees, Williams shared the following observations:
- Unemployment rate is 5 times higher for people with criminal records.
- Almost all recidivism happens within 5 years of arrest.
- Individuals with jobs are 2x likely to avoid arrest than those unemployed.
- Individuals with a criminal background are quality employees: more motivated, promoted faster.
- Strong liability protections exist for employers in Georgia.
Williams pointed out how this untapped pool could support some of Georgia’s most in-demand jobs – from home health and personal care aids to truck drivers and construction skilled trade workers – all of which require an occupational license.
Colloton shared several helpful links during the session:
- Research on retention, promotion, perceived risk, liability protection, etc.
- Rates of correctional control
- GJP’s proposals for occupational licensing reform
- More info on GJP’s policy work to remove barriers to reentry
The session was hosted and moderated by MAX board member Daniela Perry, Vice President, with the Georgia Chamber.
Click here for the presentation slides.
Click here for the recording.
ABOUT MAX MINUTES
Launched in 2014, the mission of MAX is to advance economic competitiveness in the Atlanta region by strengthening connections, collaborations, and practices among workforce developers and organizations engaged in workforce development.
Through our webinar series, MAX Minutes, MAX seeks to bring timely insights to providers, intermediaries, and other partners in workforce. MAX Minutes features talks by key experts in the Atlanta region and beyond on important workforce matters.