Pathway 4

Maximizing Employer Influence

Beyond talent, philanthropy, and communications, Second Chance employers can use company resources to drive broader adoption and policy changes that create more opportunities for justice-impacted individuals.

Employers can involve their policy and government relations teams to support laws that strengthen Second Chance efforts. Locally, they can advocate for parole and probation policies that support rather than hinder, employment such as flexible supervision schedules, reduced electronic monitoring, and fewer employer visits.

On a wider scale, employers can back campaigns for record clearing, expungement, and the removal of employment barriers. They can also push back against restrictive occupational licensing and regulations that disqualify candidates from certain industries.

Additionally, employers can influence their vendors by promoting Second Chance practices through procurement. Many subcontract roles like food service, maintenance, and security, or use staffing firms for high-demand jobs. These vendors may unintentionally block access. Including Second Chance-related questions in procurement can signal a commitment to inclusive hiring.

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