Gov. Mary Fallin issued an executive order Wednesday changing the application process for state agency positions. The governor is now requiring all agencies to remove questions regarding felony convictions.
Fallin’s executive order comes after her criminal justice task force suggested “banning the box” that covers criminal history on job applications. The order does not prohibit questions about felony convictions during the interview process or background checks.
State Representative Pam Peterson authored a similar bill this legislative session, but she pulled it after Fallin’s order.
“I applaud the Governor’s quick action on this very important issue on getting people back integrated into society and tax paying citizens, so thank you, Governor Fallin,” Peterson said during the Criminal Justice and Corrections committee meeting Wednesday.
Oklahomans for Criminal Justice Reform Chair Kris Steele also praised the executive order, saying in a press release that it “sends a powerful message that Oklahoma believes in second chances.”
“It shows that Oklahoma is intent on utilizing all the talent within our workforce, and it affords tremendous hope to those in the process of rebuilding their lives,” Steele said.
The rule takes effect immediately.
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