The Downsides of Ban-the-Box Laws

Jeffrey Miron

Ban-the-box laws prohibit “checkboxes” that ask job applicants whether they have a criminal record. These laws aim to make it easier for people who have served sentences to reintegrate into society. 

BTB laws, however, interfere with employers’ freedom to hire whomever they wish. It matters, therefore, whether BTB laws achieve their stated goal, and with what side effects. 

Cato Research Brief no. 392 

examines the effectiveness of [BTB] laws and finds...