BILL TO HELP EX-OFFENDERS SEEK EMPLOYMENT WON’T HELP SEX OFFENDERS

One of the major challenges that people face when being released from jail is finding a job. A bill that has passed the New Jersey Senate would make it easier for people convicted of moral turpitude crimes to find work.

Under current law, people who have been convicted of crimes involving dishonesty, depravity or fraud are unable to work for businesses that have a liquor license unless they obtain a Rehabilitation Employment Permit, which can cost up to $125 per year. The new legislation would remove this barrier, but with a few restrictions.

The legislation would ban ex-offenders from holding positions that involve serving, selling or mixing alcoholic beverages, security, or management. But it would allow ex-offenders to hold many other positions within these businesses, including as cooks, janitors and entertainment.

Who the Bill Excludes

While this new law would open up employment opportunities for many people that have paid their debt to society, it does not include people that the state forces to register as sex offenders under Megan’s Law. Due to the length of time people are required to register – often for life – people labeled sex offenders find it very difficult to find employment, even years after being released from prison.

However, a person may be able to file an application to the Superior Court of New Jersey to end mandatory registration as a sex offender. This may be done if certain conditions are met:

• Been on the sex offender registry for 15 years
• Have not committed another offense
• Not a threat to the safety of others

If the state requires you to register as a sex offender and you meet the conditions for relief from registration, speak with an experienced attorney. Ending mandatory registration will lift a burden from your shoulders and may improve your ability to find employment.