Title 09 Employment Standards
Chapter 09.02 Fair Chance Hiring
Section 09.02.010 Findings
The City of Spokane finds that many qualified job applicants who have some kind of criminal record simply cannot obtain employment due to early screening or advertising which excludes them from the applicant pool. Many individuals who have criminal records could show themselves to be both highly qualified and well-suited for employment in an interview, yet many do not even reach that stage due to screening criteria which make those with criminal records immediately disqualified for work. People with criminal records who cannot find work are forced to rely on public assistance and may be more likely than those who can secure work to re-offend.
The City of Spokane further finds that some individuals experiencing homelessness have faced barriers in seeking employment that arise from their housing status. It is a priority that the City invest and commits to reducing the impacts of homelessness in the community and also consider that the greatest way out of homelessness is a job, dignity, and purpose. The city has determined that employment discrimination solely based on housing status cannot be allowed.
Date Passed: Monday, April 21, 2025
Effective Date: Sunday, May 25, 2025
ORD C36666 Section 1
