The Tampa City Council is working towards helping individuals who have served time in prison return to the workforce and re-enter society. Their multi-pronged approach includes the “Ban The Box” effort which aims to remove the question of an individual’s criminal history from job applications. The council is also hoping to have the city commit to $150,000 in funding for an apprenticeship program that is intended to train those with criminal histories in useful trades.
This approach is in response to the high number of individuals who have committed crimes and served their time yet face punishment every day still. Returning citizens face an unemployment rate of 27%. Many with criminal records are rejected from employment due to their record. The City of Tampa hopes that by increasing the employment rate of this population, they might also prevent individuals from returning to a crime. With more capable hands rejoining society, the city hopes to see reduced crime and a stronger economy.
Individuals with criminal records face unimaginable barriers well after their crimes have been settled. With no way to make money safely, the recidivism rate skyrockets in areas with no regulation like the “Ban The Box” effort. The City’s efforts offer a helping hand to returning citizens so that they might rejoin society as productive individuals. By shifting responsibility from the individual to resolve their record, Tampa will aid these citizens in their endeavors to recover.
If you have reached a roadblock along the way to your goals because of your criminal record, Easy Expunctions has a solution. We offer accessible and affordable record-clearing services tailored to your unique circumstances!