If you are seeking employment at a government agency in Dutchess County, you are covered by its Ban the Box law. This law only applies to the public sector.
Under this law, an employer cannot ask about your criminal record on any pre-screening employment applications. In addition, an employer cannot conduct a background check until they have given you a conditional job offer. If the job legally requires a background check, the agency can ask you about your criminal history earlier in the process.
Dutchess Ban the Box Law