Recently, the New York City Council passed legislation that prohibits most employers from conducting credit checks for job applicants. The City Council noted that employers often use consumer credit information in making hiring decisions, although there is little evidence connecting an employee's credit score to job performance or trustworthiness.
There are some limited exceptions, however, where credit checks may still be utilized. For example, they can be used in connection with the employment of:
- Police officers
- Certain computer security employees
- Employees with access to trade secrets
- And certain employees of broker dealers
Credit checks are also permitted when required by state or federal law.
It is expected that Mayor DiBlasio will sign the bill into law, which will become effective 120 days after enactment.
Should you have any questions on hourly wages or other employment-related
matters, please contact Mr. Kimler at 516.437.4385, x122, or
akimler@vmmlegal.com
.