Addressing Barriers to Occupational Licensing for People Who Have Criminal Records

This webinar is part of Occupational Licensing: Assessing State Policy and Practice, a project of the National Conference of State Legislatures, the National Governors Association Center for Best Practices, and The Council of State Governments.

Finding and maintaining employment is a critical aspect of preventing recidivism among people who have criminal records. But having a criminal record can make it difficult, or even impossible, for a person to find work, especially in a field that requires an occupational license. This webinar discusses some of the barriers to occupational licensing that people who have criminal records face. Presenters share best practices and policy options for policymakers to help address these barriers.

Panelists:

• Chidi Umez, Project Manager, The CSG Justice Center
• Beth Avery, Staff Attorney, National Employment Law Project
• Lee McGrath, Senior Legislative Counsel, Institute for Justice