What Is the “Ban the Box” Movement?
Posted on: August 7, 2020 | Posted by: Jarrett P. Ambeau | Comments: No Comments
Louisiana’s Significant Victory in Higher Education
Louisiana is the first state in the nation to implement a statewide ban prohibiting public colleges from asking applicants about their criminal records. Considering that Louisiana has the highest incarceration rate in the country, this is a huge victory for people with a criminal record.
In 2018, 1,052 per 100,000 people in Louisiana were behind bars, totaling about 50,000 people altogether. As a result of this law, more people can enjoy equal opportunities in higher education upon their release from prison, rather than suffering discrimination due to their criminal past.
“Ban the Box” Movement
The state’s decision supports the ongoing “ban the box” movement, which strives to ban employers and university admissions offices from requiring applicants to disclose their criminal history. Applicants are required to answer questions honestly, so if they’re asked about any prior convictions, their chances of securing a favorable outcome can drastically decrease.
Thankfully, however, Louisiana’s public universities are opening up their doors to those with a criminal past. Thousands of people can start fresh and rebuild their livelihoods thanks to the state’s policy to “ban the box” in public college applications.
The benefits of higher education include:
- Career preparation and employment opportunities
- Financial stability
- Practical benefits
- Personal development
- Health
- Discipline
- Enhanced communication
- Civic involvement
- Poverty reduction
- An increased social and professional network
- Pursuing a passion
There are countless other benefits of higher education, and it’s impressive that Louisiana is blazing the trail for states and countries to follow. We are proud of the steps Louisiana is making to reduce discrimination in public colleges against people with a criminal history.
Our Baton Rouge criminal defense attorney works tirelessly to prevent clients from suffering a criminal record so they can enjoy equal opportunities in higher education, employment, housing and more. If you got charged with a crime, don’t sit on it, act on it. Contact (225) 330-7009 as soon as possible so we can work towards a brighter future on your behalf.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the “Ban the Box” movement?
The “Ban the Box” movement aims to prevent employers and public institutions, like universities, from asking applicants about their criminal history upfront. This allows individuals with prior convictions a fair chance to compete for jobs and educational opportunities.
How has Louisiana implemented “Ban the Box” in higher education?
Louisiana became the first state to prohibit public colleges from asking applicants about criminal records. This policy helps reduce discrimination against people with criminal histories and allows them to pursue higher education without bias.
Why is this important for people with a criminal record?
People with criminal histories often face barriers in education, employment, and housing. “Ban the Box” helps them rebuild their lives, gain career preparation, financial stability, and personal development opportunities.
What benefits does higher education provide for individuals with a criminal record?
Higher education can enhance employment prospects, financial security, communication skills, civic involvement, social and professional networks, and personal growth. It also helps reduce poverty and promotes a sense of discipline and purpose.
How can Ambeau Law help individuals affected by criminal records?
Attorney Jarrett Ambeau works to prevent criminal charges from resulting in permanent records. With skilled legal defense, clients can protect their rights and access opportunities in education, employment, and housing for a brighter future.
About the Author
Jarrett P. Ambeau
Jarrett P. Ambeau Criminal Defense Attorney in Baton Rouge | Expert in Forensic DNA Interpretation Jarrett Ambeau is a highly respected criminal defense attorney based in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and the founder of The Ambeau Law Firm. With over 14 years of experience and more than 50 felony jury trials to verdict, Jarrett has...