Nick Sohr posted an item on the Daily Record’s Eye on Annapolis Blog today about the credit check bill that has been introduced in both houses of the General Assembly. The legislation, SB 110 and HB 175, would prohibit an employer from using an applicant’s credit report or credit history when making hiring decisions unless there is a bona fide work-related purpose.
The Maryland Chamber’s Employment Relations Committee is reviewing the bills and reaching out to the bill sponsors to learn more. We’ve heard some initial concerns related to:
- Screening for employees who handle cash or financial information.
- How will the term “Bona fide work-related purpose” will be defined?
- Whether this issue is best handled at the federal level rather than having different states adopting different standards.
- How this fits in with other elements of background checks like reference checks and criminal background checks?
We’re trying to determine what kind of impact this would have on member companies. We’d appreciate any input you could provide. Do you use credit checks during the hiring process? Do you have any thoughts on this proposal?
Please email your comments to Allyson Black at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).
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