What is the Fair Chance Act?
The Fair Chance to Compete for Jobs Act (also known as the "Ban the Box" law for federal employment) limits when federal agencies can inquire about criminal history during the hiring process. This helps ensure that candidates are evaluated on their qualifications first.
Key Provisions
The Act establishes the following requirements:
- Criminal history inquiries cannot be made before a conditional offer
- Job postings cannot include criminal history questions
- Background checks occur only after conditional job offer
- Applicants have rights to review and respond to findings
- Penalties exist for violations of these requirements
Exceptions
The Act includes limited exceptions for positions that:
- Require access to classified information
- Are specifically excluded by law
- Involve law enforcement or national security
- Require a determination of fitness based on character
Applicant Rights
If you apply for a position with us, you have the right to:
- Have your qualifications evaluated before criminal history review
- Receive a conditional offer before background check
- Review information obtained in background checks
- Provide information to explain or dispute findings
- File a complaint if you believe the Act was violated
Our Commitment
Piedmont Logistics is committed to:
- Evaluating all candidates fairly based on qualifications
- Following all Fair Chance Act requirements
- Providing training to hiring managers on fair practices
- Considering the nature and relevance of any criminal history
- Supporting successful reentry into the workforce
Filing a Complaint
If you believe your rights under the Fair Chance Act were violated:
- File a complaint with our Human Resources office
- Contact the Office of Personnel Management
- Complaints must be filed within 30 days of the alleged violation
- You may be entitled to relief including reconsideration
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Under the Fair Chance Act, we cannot ask about criminal history on job applications or during interviews before making a conditional offer of employment.
Background checks are conducted only after a conditional offer of employment is made. You will be notified before the check and given an opportunity to review and respond to the results.
No. Having a criminal record does not automatically disqualify you. We consider the nature of the offense, how long ago it occurred, the job requirements, and evidence of rehabilitation.