What is ?

Project Open Door is an initiative led by the JAX Chamber to encourage employers to delay criminal background inquiries to the interview process. Also known as “ban the box” in other communities, this is a voluntary effort to afford more opportunity to all Jacksonville citizens while helping support the regional economy.

Many employers are demonstrating an ongoing commitment to take action to reduce barriers to a fair shot at a second chance, including delaying criminal history questions until later in the hiring process; ensuring that information regarding an applicant’s criminal record is considered in proper context; and engaging in hiring practices that do not unnecessarily place jobs out of reach for those with criminal records.

This is not something we are trying to address at City Hall or in Tallahassee. This is the business community leading the way and agreeing that by not immediately excluding someone with an arrest record, we make a positive change in our companies and in our community.

Opening the door lets people in… and helps businesses grow.

When employers ask up front on an employment application about prior arrests or criminal convictions, it is too easy to dismiss those candidates right away without hearing their story. With a tight labor market, it makes good economic sense for the region—more citizens working means reduced recidivism, increased spending and improved quality of life for everyone.

Most importantly, everyone deserves a second chance.

By signing on with Project Open Door, employers are voicing strong support for economic opportunity for all, including the approximately 70 million Americans who have some form of a criminal record.