On September 9, 2019, Los Angeles launched the Fair Chance Hiring Pledge and Engagement Campaign, increasing awareness of incentives and support available to employers hiring justice-involved individuals.

The initiative, authored by Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda L. Solis and co authored by Supervisor Mark Ridley Thomas, reflected growing recognition that employment opportunities can influence stability, economic mobility, and long term community well being.

Fair Chance Hiring challenges employers to reconsider assumptions and recognize talent beyond a criminal record.

As Supervisor Solis shared:

“We challenge employers to think outside the box when making their hiring decisions. Studies clearly show that hiring rehabilitated people with past records is a smart business move. They work harder, stay longer, and promote faster than other employees.”

The campaign reinforced an important idea:

Expanding access to employment can strengthen communities while creating opportunities for people to rebuild and thrive.

Learn more about the Fair Chance Hiring Campaign through the Los Angeles County Department of Economic Opportunity.