Proposed law could transform jobs for 630,000+ former felons in South Carolina

RICHLAND COUNTY, S.C. — A new bill being introduced in South Carolina by state Representative Jermaine Johnson aims to give people with felony convictions a better chance at rebuilding their lives. The proposed law would remove background checks from the hiring process for certain jobs, allowing those with past convictions to apply for work without the barrier of their criminal history.

Supporters of the bill argue that this initiative could provide a much-needed opportunity for rehabilitation for thousands of South Carolinians who have served time for crimes. As over 630,000 people in the state have been convicted of felonies, which often leaves them with limited options in terms of housing, voting rights, and employment.

“I have family and friends who have been barred from getting employment due to their backgrounds,” Johnson said. “They had been completely rehabilitated and were just trying to move on with their lives.” Johnson also highlights the fact that people returning from prison often do not seek high office positions but instead are simply looking for a chance to reintegrate into society through steady employment.

Lester Young, formerly convicted served over 20 years in the state prison system, is one of the key advocates for the bill. Young is now an advocate for second chances and works with the organization ‘Path 2 Redemption’ , which helps former prisoners reintegrate into society. He shares his personal experience of the challenges faced after his release. “I didn’t realize the barriers until I was in the community and I was applying for employment. All these companies were doing background checks that kicked me out of the employment pool,” Young said.

Johnson’s bill, set to be introduced in the January legislative session, would remove background checks for individuals applying for jobs that are not directly related to their felony convictions. This change is seen as an opportunity to help those who have paid their debt to society rebuild their lives and re-enter the workforce.

The push for the bill comes as President-Elect Donald Trump prepares to return to office, a development that has led Johnson to reflect on questions of fairness and second chances. “Why not?” Johnson asked, pointing out that even though Trump faced a felony conviction, he still holds the highest office in the land.

Advocates like Young and Johnson stress that this bill is a chance for lawmakers and the community to reconsider how society views those with criminal histories. “This is a great opportunity for our elected officials and concerned community members to dive deep into some of these stigmas placed on individuals,” Young explained.

The bill could have significant implications for people who have completed their sentences and are trying to reintegrate into society. With the legislative session starting next month, Johnson plans to push for a hearing to discuss the bill, which could change the lives of thousands of former felons seeking a fresh start.