If you are seeking employment at a government agency in the City of Syracuse, you are covered by the Syracuse Fair Employment and Licensure Ordinance. This ordinance is a “Ban the Box” ordinance and only applies to the public sector.
An employer cannot ask about your criminal record during the application process. You can only be asked about your record once the employer has determined that you are qualified for the position and has extended a conditional job offer.
A conditional job offer may be withdrawn if the employer determines that there is a direct relationship between your conviction and the job position (or if there is a finding of unreasonable risk). If an employer decides not to hire you, you will be provided with a copy of the criminal history report, which identifies “disqualifying information.” After, you will have the opportunity to provide evidence that your record does not pose an unreasonable risk or interfere with the job requirements before the employer makes a final hiring decision.