ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) – Starting Friday, June 14, New Mexico employers will no longer be allowed to ask about arrests or conviction on a job application. Senate Bill 96, also known as ‘Ban the Box’, prevents private employers from being able to ask applicants about their criminal history on initial applications.
The state approved the bipartisan bill earlier this year and was sponsored by Democratic state Sen. Bill O’Neill and Republican Rep. Alonzo Baldonado. However, the applicant is still subject to a background check.
During the legislative session, lawmakers said the goal is to give workers a chance to get through an interview and explain their circumstances.
The law also allows those who believe are a victim of the law’s violation may seek relief under the Human Rights Act.
