Possible protections to end discrimination in housing and employment based on arrest / conviction record

Public safety concerns all of us. Currently, when people have done their time and leave prison, it is often difficult to find housing and employment. Adding protections to end discrimination in housing and employment based on arrest or conviction records is one strategy to help support people’s re-entry, and to decrease the likelihood of re-offending.

Community Forum scheduled for March 16 at City Hall

Attend a second Community Forum to discuss a proposal to make it against the law to discriminate against a person in employment, housing and contracting due to an arrest or conviction record, with some exceptions.

Wednesday, March 16, 6 – 8 pm
Seattle City Hall, 600 Fourth Avenue
Bertha Knight Landes Room

Free and open to the public

The proposal would amend the City’s current anti-discrimination laws to limit the ways an employer or housing provider can use arrest or conviction records when deciding to hire, fire, promote or take other employment actions, or when deciding to rent, evict or take other housing actions.

Flyer: March 16 Community Forum

Background and Fact Sheet
How would the law work; more information on the issue

Responding to concerns
A variety of issues raised by community stakeholders.

Proposed ordinance draft language