OH SB143

Private employers with 5 or more employees are prohibited from asking about criminal background on initial job applications or inquiring about criminal history during the initial application stage

Employers cannot consider arrests that did not result in conviction or participation in pre-trial diversion programs when conducting background checks

Employers who intend to deny employment based on criminal background must conduct an individualized assessment considering the nature and gravity of the offense, time elapsed since the offense, and relevance to the specific job duties

Applicants must receive written notice of preliminary disqualification decisions and have at least 5 days to respond with evidence challenging the background check accuracy or demonstrating rehabilitation

Violations constitute unlawful discriminatory practices enforceable through the Ohio Civil Rights Commission; the law does not apply to positions where criminal background checks are required by federal, state, or local law