If you’ve ever filled out a job application, especially for a commercial driving job, you’ve seen a section that asks you about prior criminal history. Along with any driving related offenses, you have to fill out information about any prior felony or misdemeanor charges and convictions. Typically, most companies will tell you that if you’ve had a felony conviction in the past 10 years, or a misdemeanor in the past 5, you’re probably out of luck. Well, all of that may be about to change. This isn’t a simple open and shut case, so I encourage you to read to the end and keep an open mind.
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) which is the agency responsible for making sure that people are not discriminated against based upon race, color, sex, religion, or national origin when applying for a job is now adding criminal record to that list.
The commission is asserting that a criminal history that would not impact a person’s ability to perform a task should not be used as a reason not to hire them. This seems like a reasonable assertion, but it also leaves a massive gray area. If a person is convicted of murder or armed robbery, it may not inhibit their ability to drive a truck, but it most certainly would make me think twice about hiring them. Is it wrong to not want to employ violent felons? Or if you say no violent felons, or make some other distinction, where do you draw the line?
On the other hand, if a person received a misdemeanor for disorderly conduct two years ago, it does not necessarily impact his ability to drive a truck, and therefore should not be used against him. Many quality workers have been barred from good employment for this sort of situation, and they absolutely deserve to at least be considered for the job.
The end goals of the EEOC are admirable, and their reasoning understandable. In 2007, 3.2% of all adults in the United States were currently under some form of “correctional control,” meaning probation, parole or prison. Again, that number is only for one year, and every year it is increasing. There is absolutely something wrong when our “rehabilitated” citizens are unable to find jobs, end up turning back to crime, and get sent back to prison.
There is no easy answer to this. Normally one might call for an end to over-regulation, deciding instead to simply let companies make their own judgment calls, but in a world where there are still massive discrimination cases shaking our industry, it is clear that someone needs to stand up for those who are less-than-perfect applicants on paper, but who need a job just as much as everyone else.
Next Story: Driver Harassment: Drivers Won’t Be Allowed To Testify In Court
Source: fleetowner
matt says
This is very true and I know a lot of men that are not necessarily bad men but .have a criminal history and want to do better. I think they deserve a chance as much as the next guy.
John Ciely says
I’m overwhelmed by the continued trampling of our rights by the government. In my life time I have seen the very thing we have fought hard for since 1776 slowly taken away!
GEORGEJANSEN says
Give Rodney a chance…give Rodney a chance…
Cheryl says
I am a recruiter and you have no idea how many people I have to turn away because of a felony that happened even over 10 years ago. These guys did something stupid in their younger years and now have families to support. They thought they learned their lesson, but the trouble they had years ago and never got in trouble again after that is following them to the end. I make suggestions to most to try to get their records expunged, but unfortunately without a job for the money to do it, makes it impossible because they need to pays bills and put food on the table first. They need to give these guys a chance. If they have to put certain stops on them, then the ones with murder, kidnapping, firearms or anything to do with children should not be allowed to drive. I think companies need to research closer to the circumstance in which these guys were felons or have a misdemeanor. They paid their debt at one time, get them off the unemployment and welfare system and put them to work.
Clay says
I got a class D felony 1997 served my time, it’s 2016 and countless interviews a guy looking over my application and says it looks good and they pull it closer to read something and say man I wanted to hire you I think you can be an asset to our company but they want let me hire a felon, I’ve heard it time an time again I just get up shake he’s hand and walk out discourage even more than when I started and I good job worth anything!! I just wish somebody would believe in me to not judge me by one past mistake and judge me on the work, job I do and my performance. Not what a 22 year old done almost 20 years ago my driving record is perfect and has been,I love to drive long distances in 15 plus years
Martee99 says
I have a right to discriminate against criminals.
Clay says
There are people that goes to prison everyday that aren’t criminals buddy
John says
The sad truth is 99% of the population has some kind of skeletons in their closets. At some point of time I’d bet my soul that 99% of the population has committed crimes whether their willing to admit it or not. Just because you didn’t get caught doesn’t mean you’re not a criminal so take a good look in the mirror before you judge.
Bruce McMurray says
I am so glad that in your entire life you have never made one mistake. You must be more Holy than the Pope. Lets hope you continue on this Holier than thou path. But in the end you WILL BE JUDGED. Good Luck
Larry says
Some people do deserve a second chance. Some companies make you take a psychological/attitude test to see were your mind frame is at. You can’t just let a recruiter decide. They bring anyone in.
Aaron says
With about one in five Americans holding a criminal record and a lot of those without a criminal past being in white collar work, it’s not surprising that there are a lot of drivers with criminal histories applying for work. Off the top of my head, I can name at least one person with a dishonorable discharge, one with a felony background, and two or three with non-drug offenses who are OTR drivers with perfect safety records. Heck, if your felony is over 10 years old, you can usually get clearance for a Hazmat. Companies who discriminate based purely on criminal history are losing out at a time when drivers are already hard to find. Yet it should be their right to do so if they wish.
Chris says
” at a time when drivers are already hard to find. ”
When the average driver lasts less than six months and companies having 200% to 300% turnover I would not say drivers are hard to find. The only way pay will increase is for them to be hard to find and hence why the ATA and their shills want more driver candidates in the pool.
twobeef says
When I was in a truck drivers’ community college course to get my CDL, there were a couple of ex-cons in there. Not even older guys – younger guys that had just gotten out of jail, had gotten a grant from the government to get a little education and try to get back on track. These guys didn’t strike me as out to steal from anyone anymore. They honestly wanted to get their lives back on track.
It kinda stung for them when the recruiters when come through, and they’d ask, “Will you hire felons?” And one would say, “On a case-by-case basis…” And another would say, “If it’s a certain number of years ago,” which didn’t help these guys that had just got out. And another would say, “We need our drivers to have hazmat/TWIC, and felony will prevent you from doing that.” And so these guys were kinda stuck taking whatever over-the-road company would take them.
Honestly, I applaud the move here. If a guy’s done his time, then you should treat him like he’s done his time and let him move on. Part of the problem we have we have with criminals is that they get out of jail, try to get hired again, no one will hire convicts, so they ended up going back to crime to make ends meet again! We’d probably have less people in jail if these guys could get decent jobs when they get out, and lord knows nobody else wants to be an over-the-road driver these days!
John says
Just a matter of lowering the bar to find drivers. What does that tell you about the quality of the job?
todd says
ever watch the old westerns…ever watch gunsmoke…when an outlaw who went too far got put in prison it was to pay his debt to society…when he served his term he had paid his debt..end of it…so you got an armed robber, who might have been robbing to buy drugs or groceries to feed his family..he serves his term..he has a warning flag put around his neck as he is a convicted felon…he cant find a job..cause…of the felon warning…what else is he to do but return to being one ?…gotta eat somehow..remove the felon warning, many would enter the workforce and be decent citizens as anything is better than prison life…the ones who are going to rob to buy drugs and such are going to do the same thing they did and end up right back in there even without the felon warning….murderers and rapists when PROVEN guilty, should never enter prison and instead should be taken out behind the courthouse immediatly after their trial, and have a large hot hole put in their forehead on live television as it would cut down on crime and prison overpopulation, which we all pay for….just an opinion of course..
Clay says
Well put there Todd I agree 100% that would cut out on tv time these bad people get and cut out trials us tax payers has to pay to have a jury trial, most of these high profiled murders, rapes, school shootings or whatever are put off in court systems for years and we pay to house and feed them while they lay in jail awaiting tril getting all this television publicity and write books that r sold for millions
Richard Turner says
The problem is not hiring criminals, the problem is that companies will have a reason to pay them less or make a reason. Then good people with no record will not be able to find work. These laws need to state that those with criminal records will be paid the same as anyone else.
Rain Man says
I am a convicted felon. Out of 18 driver applications, only one company was willing to hire me.
Fortunately for me, that one company pays the most of all of them, has added drivers every year for 20 years, and gets me home 3 times a week. Not bad for a new driver to be making. $1000 a week with fully paid health plan.
My felony is more than 10 years old. I was successful in a previous career, have a bachelor’s degree, yet it seemed I was unemployable.
Thank God for the smart people who hired me. Screw Swift, Stevens, Werner, TMC etc. I
keith says
If you could help bro it would be great rain man I’m trying to start trucking school but I need a pre-hire if u could help it would be great
Brant Zimny says
May I ask, who hired you? I have 2 non violent felonies, and a flawless driving record. Have experience driving class b tow trucks. Any news might really help me. Thank you. My name is DREW
Mick Dickson says
I am very Happy for you to get a job with a felony background. May I ask you the Company Name who gave you the opportunity to drive for them?
Thank you…
Bruce McMurray says
I am glad to hear you found work. Just because you make one mistake should not mean you have to suffer for the rest of your life.
Mothertuckerwife says
I think felons deserve the chance to have a good job so that they can help support their families. It also says a lot about a person that is ok with any type of discrimination and thinking that a company is not of quality because they hire felons. I guess there are PERFECT people in the world. NOT!!!!
Bruce McMurray says
I am so keen to meet these prefect people without fault .
Adam says
I know a few felons that I would trust more than non felons. So it not about lowering the bar or anything negative. If a person has paid their debt to society for a crime then it shouldn’t be held against them. You aren’t better than someone else just cause you don’t have a criminal history!
MIKE says
I do not see anyone with a robery, vehiclure assult,or a few others that I can not think of at this time getting a driving job because the insurance company would not want that risk.
I had a neighbor that had a felony he was in a stolen car with his buddy and got popped with him. There may be more to the story but I did not ask but he could not get a job because of his record.
Brian says
So, my only law infraction; a robbery conviction from 20 years ago, will bar me from working for you? What about the details? A young guy with bad friends and one big mistake…perhaps I would not like to work for you after all…
puttnut says
I for one am glad to see this come about.because how long must one live to prove to employers the poor decisions form 35 years ago no longer are part of the way I live my life today.the DWI I got 17 years ago has haunted me half to death.I NO LONGER LIVE THAT WAY TODAY.fmcsa says DWI”s that old have no bearing on dac score unless the happened in a comerical vehical and it boils down to company policy as to hiring.I got a “good luck” from 65 companies and all I want is an honest job with an honest company for an honest guy.ME
rich says
I was convicted of a felony 20 yrs ago do to a auto accident, long story short, never been in trouble before that or after as far as that goes and I could not get a job forever just because I was young and was stupid and let my insurance laps. So just because someone has a felony in doesn’t mean they are criminals.
Floyd says
Rather than give these Felons a job, American tax payers would rather pay for them in a prison cell or get robbed by one because they have no where else to turn, so they just go back, we as Americans can actually help with repeated crimes if we were not so narrow minded
john says
I don’t have an issue with this at all. I see drivers on the road with perfect criminal records driving for companies (like Fedex for example) that CONSISTENTLY put trucks in ditches and endanger other people’s lives for the simple reason that, they (the employer) value a perfect criminal past over an experienced, professional driver.
I have 2 felonies on my record that were non violent, and committed 17 years ago…that are still held against me to this day when I apply for a job.
I’ve been on the road for 14 years, have well over a million accident-free miles , no tickets, perfect record…But STILL can’t be hired at Fedex! LoL…Its a prime example of why the law needs to change. I’m all for giving people a 2nd chance. I’m very happy with my current job & make great money because despite my past… I proved I’m a pro-driver…not a life long felon. Id give other people a shot to do so as well, because there are a lot of guys out there who just made dumb mistakes as kids & got into trouble with the law…who would otherwise make excellent drivers if given the oppurtunity.
Its a prime example
john says
Lowering the bar? How about hiring drivers with perfect criminal pasts who put trucks in ditches or endanger other people’s lives because they suck…as drivers?
If a guy is qaulified to drive, and does a good job at it, and is safe, who cares what he did in his life in the past….unless it was violent or driving-related.?
germane says
I to have a felony I was falsely acussed of a robbery I did not do. But just because I got a felony it doesnt make me a bad person. That was in 1991 it is now 2013 and I havent had another since. So wat that tell you we can be falsely accused but the record makes it hard to find a job. But I thank God I have a driving job.
Clay says
Hey sir what driving company hires felonys or what company do you work. Can I get my CDL’s with a felony
Eyes of Blue says
Everyone deserves a second chance. When people get desperate, they do desperate acts. Some are just young and use poor judgement. It should be a case by case decision. What is that saying? Don’t judge me until you have walked a mile in my moccasins.
Bruce McMurray says
Hey there, I agree with you. each case should be taken on it own merrit
Lou says
My own experience in hiring drivers with recent criminal records his been a history repeats itself problem. I know people need opportunity’s for employment but, it seems to be a pattern that duplicates.
Jack says
Well guys and girls it’s like this…I am one such criminal. In my life time I have spent 17 years in and out of prison systems. I was a burglar and worked in the south Florida area. I changed my ways and got my life straight after my last sentence. I have been out for over 20 years now and have never done another thing wrong. I even went to truck driving school and got a job driving for company out of Cedar Rapids. When they sent me out with my trainer he tried to climb up in the rack with me. So go figure. The things is we all need to remember that if you don’t give a person a chance to make a living they’ll have to survive somehow. Personally I’d rather see them working then committing more crimes . A person will only take so much before they go back to their old ways to survive. We all need food and shelter and if one can’t pay for it what do you think they are going to do?
mike says
I have 4 felonys all took place in 1991 i have been driving since 1999 had all kinds of jobs over the last 14 years never been turned down for a job
Clay says
What company do you work for sir?
Bandit says
I am a true believer in second chances, as I am a person that made a very bad choice earlier in my life. I paid my “debt to society “, as the say, and I was lucky enough to have close connections in this great industry to get a job…as a recruiter. I have many times argued on the behalf of another HUMAN BEING to give them a second chance, some I lost, but mostly I won….until a new regeim took over and came up with a hiring tool called a matrix. If you have had a felony in 10 years…no deal, misdmeanor in 5…your out. I wouln’t put just anyone in a truck. I looked at what you did prior to, and after the offense, then I decided what battle I could fight. Good luck to all to good guys and gals out there that want to get into this industry that dont have stellar backgrounds. My favorite say is…I’m looking for good truck drivers, not angels… I had to give that one up.
kevin says
Good answer. I myself am a convicted felon. I went to prison for killing a man. Sounds like I am a terrible person but I assure you I’m not. The Parole Board once I finally got to see them after spending over 13 years in prison could not believe I was there. Fortunately I had a friend that gave me a job as a Semi truck mechanic. He pulled me aside one day and told me he was apprehensive about hiring me but as it turns out it was a blessing. To hire someone that has been convicted of a major crime certainly would be scary. A case by case look see is necessary. Problem is no one will take that kind of time. Many employers that would take the chance pay these guys less than other employees and give them crap jobs and move others up the ranks keeping the felon at meager wages knowing the felon is pretty much stuck. The felon just moved from one prison to a different kind. I am a faith based mentor that now goes back into prisons and talks with inmates about to be released. Felons have many obstacles to face once released. Help and prayer works I am living proof. Felons need to understand a conviction follows you forever. My mistake was almost 30 years ago. I am retired now and I am still subjected to it from time to time.
Matthew says
With someone who ahs a misdemeanor on his record that is 4 years 10 months old, i have to completely agree that the EEOC needs to step in and make a case for us who are being turned away from jobs because of something that happened so long ago. I dont think it says that the quality of the job is going downhill just means companies are willing to give a person a second chance.
Rob says
Good deal.. I am a convicted felon of a not violent crime and have been rejected for 20 years. I have done my time and still have a selective few who I can drive for. Would be nice to be concidered for a good job.
RedSince1979 says
Well since we only have 5% of the world’s population yet 25% of it’s prison population, this shouldn’t be a surprise. It is so easy to get a felony that even Fox news did a program about how just about EVERY American can be legally found guilty of something that could put them behind bars. People returning from the legal system deserve a second chance and if we are trying to rehabilitate them instead of keep them in perpetual punishment, they need access to good paying jobs. Felons can’t be master carpenters, get a pilots license, enlist in the arms forces and it is now being recognized that our justice system is basically creating a legion of second class citizens for a new form of slavery, yes slavery. If someone can ONLY get a job at McDonalds which can’t support their family then they will more than likely return to crime because your stomach doesn’t care if the food in it was stolen or bought when you are starving. I have been driving since 2001 have had my hazmat and all and I can say that without trucking, I would have went back to jail. Yes, I am a felon.
Dave says
What could be more dangerous than releasing felons and putting them into a situation where they are unable to earn a legal living? How do you think that will turn out?
Rick says
I wonder how many felons sit on the boards of directors?
Dave says
You pull into a closed strip mall to study your map. Guess what? In Florida you are guilty of loitering and prowling depending on a cop’s mood. Then you find out that to go to trial will cost you $4,000 per day or any part of a day for a lawyer. The court offers you a deal which is no fine, no sentence, no conviction and 1 month of unsupervised probation which you take because paying $4,000 seems ridiculous. So they hit you up for steep court costs and a probation fee aka Florida tax because Florida has no income tax. Then you discover in the paperwork that you pleaded “no contest” which goes on your record, and it counts the same as a conviction when you apply for jobs. Then, you too, will be a criminal against whom employers like yourself will discriminate.
Jacob Tijsma says
I couldn’t have said it better my self!!!! I was one of them youngsters and I have been turned down a few times but then again there is company’s that will give you a chance and if they go to Canada well they just don’t send you that way,and another thing if for a person to get there record expunged takes a lot of money and most attorneys don’t want cases like that because it takes to much of there time and efforts. Thx for posting.
Angela says
Good for you!!! 🙂
Who do u drive for?
Jacob Tijsma says
And I have a right to discriminate against non criminals,sorry it works both ways sir!!!!
Angela says
Rain man who do u drive for if you don’t mind me asking?
John says
Sorry if this is offensive to those who think that they made a mistake or justify their crime when they were “young and stupid” need to understand that it isn’t about them but all of the other people who didn’t. I am not a felon, I am not a criminal, I grew up in a broken home in very poor conditions that you don’t see today and didn’t commit crimes to survive while my freinds and their family members usually ended up in jail or dead. My brothers and me ended up doing what we could legally to get out of our situation.
I am entering my 50th year driving a truck, I don’t think for a minute that there are a lot of people out there who are trust worthy and are felons. On the other hand there is a clear problem with weeding out those who are not to be trusted so you can’t just say let’s forget asking the question, the employer has a right to know seeing technically a felon lost their rights through the due process system. It is something that is in our laws that makes this so, not some regulatory group who can just change the rules we lived with for over 2 centuries.
John says
So your trying to tell me you’ve never broken a law in your life? No traffic tickets, nothing? I think you’re full of shit. If you have ever gotten traffic ticket by definition you are a criminal because you broke a law. I myself don’t believe their is a single able bodied person in this country that isn’t a criminal by definition whether you want to admit it or not. If you’ve ever jaywalked or spit on the sidewalk you are a criminal whether you like that tag or not. So go take a good look at yourself in the mirror and tell yourself you are a criminal!
Jacob Tijsma says
Get out of driving while you can!!!!
robert says
I would say, any boby could have made a mistake in their life and are now tax payers and family man. Put it this way not too many young people want to go and drive for weeks at the time away from their family nand it is a rough job afterall since the DOT are getting worst with regulations So I only got words for the new generation STAY AWAY FROM DRIVING you will loose your family over being gone too long from home.It happened to me and regretted since.
Jacob Tijsma says
I’m there with you my brother,I too am a felon and have been hired by some good companies. Mine was 27 years ago and I am still paying for it every day. I have tried to get a pardon but can’t find a lawyer who feels up to the challenge. Keep on truckin bro be safe.
Nancy Nyman says
I agree with you. Blanket accusations, like “I have the right to discriminate against criminals,” allow no individual discretion. People that like to make blanket statements such as this are closed-minded to almost anything. Many (mostly smaller) trucking companies still discriminate against women. Fortunately, for ten years I’ve been an O/O at a reputable company that respects good drivers. Laws like this one should level the playing field. If a former felon really gives a recruiter the creeps, there are still ways to ignore the application.
Jacob Tijsma says
Thank you for saying that!!!
Jacob Tijsma says
Let me start by saying that I am a EX-felon 25 yrs ago I have been a driver since 1993 I can’t owne a gun and I can’t vote,But I still pay my taxes and follow the law and one more thing,if I knew then what I know now I would be a great state trooper!!!!
Rick S says
Simple solution for companies that prefer not to hire felons.
Make a HM endorsement and TWIC mandatory for employment. If TSA/DHS says folks are OK to hold these endorsements – then who are we to argue.
Similar to my personal argument – that I hold both these things (HM & TWIC) – am trusted in ports, airports & government installations with 80K+ Lbs of HM – but not trusted to own a firearm.
I too had some, (cough cough) mis-steps in my youth – but I cleaned up years ago. I can be sympathetic towards someone that might have a criminal history, and anyone who is truly motivated to do so can get their lives back on track. But there is a difference between “youthful indiscretions” and career criminals – and in a safety sensitive and incredibly regulated industry such as ours – I can see companies erring on the side of caution – from both an insurance/liability standpoint, a “potential regulatory scrutiny” standpoint, and the standpoint of TRUSTING someone who has a history of POOR DECISION MAKING with my equipment, customers and cargo.
Rick
Jim says
I have always believed in second chances. In my former career I hired people from prison that were felons that had served their time, but had no job to go to once released. The prison had a work release program, which several of the local companies were a part of to help in the transition. I hired a woman(convicted felon) who wanted to get her kids back, but couldn’t without a job. After 3mos employed by our company, she not only got her kids back, but became a leader within our company setting up training programs for our product. After my retirement went into OTR. I became good friends with the trainer at the trucking company that I now work for and found that he was a convicted felon, which happened 18yrs ago. He’s been with the company for 10yrs and has never been singled out from any other driver as a felon. I applaud those companys that give second chances and especially companys that don’t make you ware a cap with felon writen on the front. As a convicted felon they have lost enough rights as a US citizen. Lets not deny them the right to make a honest living.
OTR MAN says
Do you mind sharing the name of your company?
Trucknmom says
Sum of u needs to pull ur heads out of ur butt. None of us r perfect and i’m sure the same ones saying those ppl don’t deserve a chance may have done things to, but jus never got caught. There r many of those facing this situation that truly want to work. Just recently i connected w/ a guy online that was just preparing to get his cdl. Once he got it he had the hardest time finding work, but i continued to encourage him and just b4 Christmas he sent me a message stating he got hired. A few days ago he messaged me again still thanking me for encouraging him thru the ordeal. I’m sure many of us know how exhausting it is to be looking for work, but having no luck. I say if they truly want to work give them a chance b/c there are many in this industry just filling a seat who don’t want to..
Darren Ammons says
I don’t know, this is a tough one. The place I drive for had another driver who did time in a federal prison and when he quit he immediately broke in and stole stereo equipment from the bosses boat! This doesn’t mean that every ex con will do this but you can never judge the intent of a person’s heart. I think if a company can hire this person then they should based on their comfort level but in no way should they be forced.
Dayne says
As a recruiter, you should also be able to confirm that it is not the companies themselves that refuse the applicants, it is the insurance companies. As long as you have a valid CDL, you can be hired and drive, regardless of your history of drugs, dui’s, felonies….you can be hired if you have a valid CDL. But the question is WILL THE INSURANCE COVER YOU.
Jane says
Matt,
Its not just men, I have been driving for 8.5 yrs and, company closed last Feb. sold to Celdon and Celdon would not hire me, so I lost my job and now I am looking and still haven’t been able to find a job because of a criminal record that was committed back 1994. I am questioned about it all the time and have missed on getting the better paying jobs. Anyways I think that sould be change because I made on mistake and became a better person for it and I am still paying for my poor judgement.
Thanks
Jane
Richard.A. says
I had a boss who had a criminal record. When he was young and stupid, he took a swing at a police officer as a teenager.
While he would never be mistaken for a ‘gentleman of culture and breeding’, he was very loyal and a straight shooter. Considering the amount of liars and backstabbers in this industry, I would take this ‘former felon’ anytime over some of the so-called ‘upstanding’ people I’ve worked with before.
Joe says
What company hired you?
Janet Paine says
So, as an employer, I’m curious if there are any insurance liability people reading this blog. What about me getting caught up in a “negligent hire” kind of situation? My heart says “give ’em a chance”, my business sense says “sorry for you”.
Stingray63 says
You are SO WRONG with felons not being approved for TWIC CARDS. I have 2 class C non violent felonies and was approved for a TWIC card back in 2010. I also retained my HAZMAT endosements as well. The agency that’s in charge of the TWIC card program will look at one’s criminal record on a case by case basis to determine if that individual can be blackmailed into doing another crime.
Stingray
Brian says
Now for the ignorant ones out there….I am an ex-felon. In 1999, driving home under influence a police officer opened up his car door into traffic on rainy night. I hit his door, kept going. Partly, due to being intoxicated. I was arrested and charged with aggravated assault 2nd degree. Served a 3rd degree sentence. My first and last criminal conviction. Served 1 yr. in state prison, let out early for good time. No easy feat by the way. Two years on parole. So 4 yr. sentence altogether. I’ve bounced from shit job to shit job. I work hard wherever I’m at. I’m not a thief and don’t look kindly at thieves. But if it got down to society persecuting me for rest of my life for something that I did when I was a younger more careless man. It would be people like you who I would have no problem turning to robbery to make something out of my life because society won’t let me. Hopefully in the next month, if I can afford it I plan to start the expungement process. So unless you know what you are talking about, and aren’t in your mommas basement playing video games all day then you can comment. For the realistic people out there your voice is appreciated by me.
Vintagedog says
For how long? By trucking standards, if YOU ever got a speeding ticket, YOU’RE a criminal too! How long should I discriminate against YOU?
Kyle says
Well I hope this helps me I’ve been turned down due to a 16yr old marijuana possession charge misdemeanor and even told we can’t hire you for this it disqualifies me WTH, so Im consider a criminal after 16yrs I was 18 yrs old I was barely a adult at the time it’s not right sure maybe it was in last 5yrs or even a felony it’s not right it’s kept me from being a local driver I have not problem passing drug test that’s all that matters and I’ve been a driver a yr and a half now
Bryan says
I was a wild kid and picked a Deferred Probation sentence. Even after I earned a Bachelor Degree I COULD NOT find a REAL JOB. I was subject low paying, dead end, low risk for the employer jobs. Even 17 years after the offence. I was devastated! The only option for me was self-employment. Unlike many others I stayed in the same small town I committed the offence. A town of about 400 people.
I can promise you I’ve paid my debt after hearing this people say horrible things about me and working where ever I could until I started my business. Its very much like a prison.
FUNNY HOW A GOVERNMENT PUTS YOU IN PRISON, PAROLE, PROBATION….. BUT ALLOWS YOU TO RAISE CHILDREN.
TF says
I believe that once you did your time, you should have that wiped clean, and have a new and clean slate to start with.
It seems that you cannot get an apartment, to provide a roof over your head, as they background check you there. Then, they background check you at the jobs you apply for and you are eliminated immediately. (Even From Jack in the Box and Waste Management, and The Rail Road, and the Oil Field, and Now even from Construction, and Landscaping Jobs—The jobs that most people do not even want).
Then, you are stuck with the situation, of how do you support your family, and if you have child support, wow. that now becomes impossible to pay. I met a guy in Phoenix that goes to jail every couple of months, and stays for six month stints. He gets out, as that is all they can hold him, he starts looking for work, and even if and when he finds a job, he is immediately arrested again, and goes back to jail. Why? Well he could not pay his child support. Why? Well he cannot get a job, and if and when he does, he gets picked up on a warrant for child support. At his job. He cannot even get a roof over his head due to this process as well.
You would think, that someone might get some brains in the Judicial system, and let this guy get a job and maybe have a chance to pay something. (Can they not attach your wages and take your pay? Duh!)
Then you have a guy who might have smoke a joint and got caught back in the day. Too Bad, No Job for you son. You are a Hardened Criminal Felon. Maybe that kid who got a DUI coming back from the Party back in School? Oh, Another Potential Felon. (In Arizona, very easily a felony with mandatory 3 to 4 Months Prison time, yes Prison time, not Jail)
Okay, then you have the Guy, who was ran over by business partners, or a greedy employer, thank bernie madoff type of thing. Then Say for instance he is managing an Apartment Building for Equity Ownership, and Does all of the Building, Painting, Cleaning Up, and Leasing, and makes the place a much better place, only to have them steal everything from you, including stuff you inherited from your parents and grand parents. Stealing the Safe the Money was in, and all of the Files for the Rents. Then to get you out of the picture, files a complaint that you stole it, has you arrested, and then sends you to Prison.
Oh, did I mention they were rich, and you had a Public Defender?
Then you have a record forever, for something that you never did. You now cannot rent an apartment to keep a roof over your head, or get a job to put food in your mouth and clothes on your back, or pay your child support, or keep your family fed, or pay your student loans, or any of it. Not to mention trying to get student loans and such after such things happen. Oh, and your Gun rights and such.
Some people make mistakes. Some people get blamed for others. Some people did nothing to end up in their particular situation, and were unfortunately unable to properly defend themselves, and now they have a record that does discriminate against them.
In the wild, you back an animal of any sort, even the very nicest ones, and they will fight to survive.
In the Case of humans, they learn that whatever happend, they do not wish to happen again, so they will first try to do the right thing. When that does not work, they will do what they need to do, in order to survive.
That includes starting or returning to criminal activity. (Kill, Steal, Dealing Drugs, etc…) They are forced into it. Do not allow yourself to be a victim. Force your Government to do the Right thing, and Rehabilitate these People. The Corrections System was Originally established to Rehabilitate those whom have committed a crime. This is what it is supposed to do today. It does not.
Our Society does not allow it.
If you are a Religious Believer, just read the Torah, or Holy Bible. It states that no matter what offenses occured, even financial ones, we must forgive them after 7 years, and give them a completely clean slate.
Andy says
I am a convicted felon. I am a trucker. I was a trucker first. Fortunately for me, the company I was working for before I was incarcerated gave me my job back once I got out. They knew I was a good hand. In another twist of irony, I applied for, and was granted my hazmat endorsement while still on supervised parole. I had to jump thru a lot of hoops, deal with a lot of bullshit from homeland security, but I got it. I have never once faced discrimination in the trucking industry because of my status as a felon. I was always lucky enough to work for small companies though
Mick Dickson says
“CDL SEEKER’S LOOK HERE”
At age 17 years old, I got a Married to my then girlfriend and she was cheating with another boy while I was working. Her boyfriend James Barnes attacked me trying to force and remove me from my own home at my age of 19 years old then and while fighting with James he death claimed him and I was charged with 3rd degree Murder for fighting with my wife lover.
I sat in prison for six full years and was released on parole and finished parole few years later and never had any trouble with the law again and that was 29 to 30 years ago.
I went to College/University education and I teach part time at a University. However, I learn how to drive Trucks before going to prison and the Company I drove for the Owner long pasted away and the Business closed. Now, 35 years ago there was no CDL’s, but I was able to drive a Semi Truck until going to prison at age 20. My Father keep my license paid up to date while serving the prison time.
Upon release I life was not to bad and I open, operated Salon Studio for many years while going to school and started a moving Company with 3 Box Trucks running to Canada and back. One day, I decided to Rent a Semi Truck to practice driving for three weeks and made some applications to see what shall happen.
I was turned down by some major Trucking Companies like Swift, TMC, Knight and several other Larger Trucking Companies.
Ps. I forgot to mention that my late Father and some Uncles drove Semi Trucks as Owners-Operators and this how I learned about Trucking or business in general.
I want to say to you guys with felonies out there, save you up your money for around $1,500 to $20,000 and buy yourself a cheap Semi Truck and take the Truck home and learn everything about the Truck and need be go take Truck repair course for 6 months to work on your own Truck because your save lots of money in the long haul.
In the mean while start visiting Truck Stop’s talk with other CDL owners/operator drivers about rules of the road or try getting a job as a Truck helper to load and unload. Get yourself a good cheap CB 40 Channel Radio and get on the Truckers channel 19 and other channels.
When your searching to buy your first Semi Truck please make sure you have the skills to repair your own Truck or if you got a good friend with skills to do the work for you and pay him good because Truck repairs are never cheap.
Ps.
Please treat your Semi Truck like a baby and get your LLC company with your TIN account set up before you buy your first Truck and learn bookkeeping skills. You can even start with a large Box Truck too.
merlinn says
Anyone with a non-violent felony conviction that is from 10 years ago or more should contact the authorities in the state where the conviction occurred. I had a conviction from Hawaii in 1977. I contacted the authorities there and asked how to get it expunged or, alternatively, get a pardon. I found out Hawaii, and a few other states, do not have a provision for expungement but do for pardons. I was sent the paperwork to fill out, got it all filled out and notarized, sent it back, waited about a year and got my “full and free pardon”. The only cost was a few phone calls and stamps. Check with the authorities in the state where the conviction occured. It may not cost much and may not require the assistance of an overpriced attorney.
mike says
I don’t know,but I think I would give them a chance to prove themselves. This is a problem with people in general,they need help but no one will hire a competant person.If I were hiring a felon I would have to make sure that they are not doing probation so that I could use them to drive to other states if necessary. One screw up and they’re gone ,they would lose my trust for them
dj says
Ok this impacted me, so hits home. felon, 21 years old non violent. was for a drug charge, No one and i mean no trucking company would talk to me. i finally got a chance with a company who shall not be named. Never had another charge for anything of a drug charge at all. never tested positive again. look i learned my lesson back then people do change. some never do, i think this is good and bad for the industry. people make mistakes and after some time leniency should be given.
Mike Daley says
This is truly a historical moment in the civil rights process that has been a long time coming. Over the decades, millions of individuals have been falsely labeled felons long after their sentence had been completed and fines paid. It has been unfair to these people, their loved ones, their families and children whom they are trying so hard to support and provide a better life – a happy and productive life free of legal constraints. If we as a nation mean to reduce the criminal population we must embrace them and give them another chance. This legislation does that openly. We are proud to have been a part of the process for so long. We began lobbying the government back in the 90’s long before background checks became as common as a loaf of bread. We can breathe a deep breath today knowing that change is possible by anyone if they just stay true to the course and never give up.
This will also enable the employment market to improve as now those with criminal records will be able to work jobs that pay enough to support their families. For too long, dishwashing jobs were all that were available to those with a criminal record. Now they can be doctors, attorneys, real estate brokers, and really anything they want to better their lives. 95 per cent of all court cases end with plea deals – where the prosecution offers little or no jail time in exchange for a guilty plea. And most people can’t afford lawyers of the caliber of F. Lee Bailey, or Johnny Cochran (RIP), so they must spend whatever money they have on third rate attorneys who just don’t give a damn about them.
The United States incarcerates more of it’s citizens than any other country in the world. It’s scary but true. And now, American civil rights have taken a giant leap forward in progress. If a company discriminates against criminals, now they can sue just like anyone has been able to for sex, age, color, etc. Join us at the American Justice Federation.
Taz says
But Todd, that would constitute cruel & unusual punishment of which the tree hugging panty waiver can’t handle. But just tell them you are raising their respective taxes to pay for their azzes to sit in prison for life with 3 squares, health care and a nice warm bed and they will be like “oh no you can’t do that”. To which I reply, then plug a hole in their forehead and burn them in the incinerator (saving precious real estate) and be gone with them. I AM a convicted felon. Not to damn proud of it as it was a non-violent crime, but none the less I took the situation into my own hands and got my azz in gear, got back to work, cleared my record, and am living life very comfortably. I work for some of the most influential musicians of our history and doing quite well at it – CRIME FREE !!! Just pisses me off we don’t deal with these fricken bassturds more diligently and more harshly. They would learn a pretty fricken fast lesson if we did rule the roost with a hard punishment. These kids now a days wouldn’t want to even be close to a weapon if they knew it would be used to knock their azz off if caught doing a crime with it !!!
Jim says
I’d rather not, since it might identify who that person is, since he is a trainer. I can tell you this much, it’s a Tanker company out of Texas.
Kyle says
After 10yrs your record should be sealed or wiped clean why why does it sit there forever for these poeple to see what u did 20yrs ago that’s not right ya police should have access but not employers its non of their business it’s yours and no one else’s has nothing to do with a job if you have stayed out of trouble for 10yrs I think you are no longer a criminal well at least now we can start surfing these employers for this discrimination I think they need to stop asking Have You ever been convicted and changed to last 10yrs only and no background checks over this period
Stormy says
Talk to your insurance company. You can hire who you want and they can increase or cancel your coverage. O/O have little to no say about their company anymore. We are mandated to death. And it is only getting worse. If you managed a bank would you hire a convicted armed robber? If you own a trucking company should se turn him loose with $1,000,000 worth of freight? If I have to hire someone with a felony DUI can I sue the EEOC? I think not. If they want so much control over me then they need to take some of the risk
Larry says
So who did you hire on with I know two guys in your position who need jobs. You can email me private if you feel the need. Thank you.
Martee99 says
Are you daft? I get to decide whom I can hire for my company not probation and parole. No one said they can’t drive no one said they can’t start their own company or become owner operators. I never said I will never hire a felon. The choice is mine. It’s my business not yours not the governments.
Donna says
I can understand certain crimes being overlooked but theft and certain other charges may not affect a persons ability to drive a commercial truck but should someone have to trust a person that has been charged with stealing vehicles? Or stealing the load? Or transporting drugs? I think it should be left up to the employer if they are willing to take the additional risk. It’s easy to say someone just made a mistake when you have no skin in the game
mike says
Aren’t you a saint, I had a non violent felony 25 yrs ago and went on to work for Ford motor co and I can vote and have a twic card. Talk to people and don’t hide or lie and you will find alot of people don’t care. If you work and pay taxes you should be able to do anything.
mike says
well said Brian
Angelia says
First I agree to a certain extemt. I think there should be a line such as kidnappers, murders, any crime committed against a child or any sexual crime should NOT be allowed! I mean if they decided to revert to their past that would give them an easy way to commit the crime again and keep on trucking. I mean that can go the same way for someone who dealed drugs or even stole and robbed! What an easy way for them to sell freight or steal it and get away by saying someone broke into the trailer. I think it truly depends on the person!!! I know someone who was in prision for selling 360 grams of coke and 3 kilos of weed. Served prision time and got out and PTL came them a 2nd chance! Everyone be safe out there on the road!
dogman 1955 says
I’am a felon convicted in 1976 for selling dangerous drugs.I’m still affected by my crime as far as landing a job goes 37 yrs. later. When i got busted i was 19 yrs. old trying to make money for food& bills for my mother,little brother and I. The court back in those days would not make my wealthy father actually pay his child support& alimony.The only job i could find was as a dishwasher at a resteraunt where the crook owner always shorted me a lot of hours on my minimum wage paycheck, so i sold drugs trying to pay bills. Eventually i was able to land a job as a driver at a food company for 28 yrs. i worked my tail off.Now i’m too old for a physical job like delivering groceries.
So i’ve found 37 yrs. later eventhough i have over 31 A.T.A. safety awards and 2-million accident free miles i’m not good enough yet for the big companies that pay well.I also have about a dozen trophies from the truck-driving -championships.
I did get a long hard laugh years ago when a Shnieder recruiter told me i didn’t meet thier high criteria standards.i think i had too many safety awards for them.
Larry says
Perfect example of the computer age. they never forget and you can never get away from even one mistake. Happens daily to people applying for almost any job.
Juan Phoquer says
Better yet….an SF-86 submitted to USIS OPM for investigation for a SECURITY CLEARANCE is only 7 years for a SECRET and 10 years for a TOP SECRET. You would report the felonies and the ADJUDICATION OFFICER would weigh out if you could be BRIBED for the knowledge of the act…or…IF the act committed was a more serious crime…ONCE granted the SECURITY CLEARANCE, one would have access to the most vetted positioning in the USG….and trucking companies that do not hire felons are just ignorant….yet MANY felons with SECURITY CLEARANCES work on MQ-9 Pedators under General Electric and other Sponsors.
ironage says
This boils down to one thing. Can you say “Driver Shortage”….i know that you can.
Chris says
So far two people have caught on to reason behind this.
Charley says
Which company hired you on? If you don’t mind me asking that is.
Wayne says
Felons should be vetted longer than non felons. They still can’t haul haz-mat loads. I might unfortunately find myself in this life in a position where I am a felon. Circumstances create these situations where people are caught in a tough spot and end up with the short end of the stick. In trucking as a felon, you will be undoubtedly put in compromising situations where your record WILL be used against you. You will be forced to do things illegally be the felons who run some of these trucking companies. Your only hope is to find a GOOD trucking company or owner and always do a good job for them. No tickets, no accidents, and no claims. If you want to better your life, trucking might not be the best place to work. If there are people pushing for felons to come into trucking, they are doing it for cheap slave labor. Trucking needs better training, not forced slave labor. It’s no surprise to me that felons are being sought to work in trucking. Not too long ago foreign drivers were being brought in and given CDL’s to drive for cheap. The trucking companies will stop at nothing to fill their seats with forced labor. If you are a felon and you want to drive a truck, my advice is to do whatever you can to get your own and find your own customers then watch your back. Honestly, you might find that getting behind the wheel of a big rig will land you right back in prison. I have no criminal record and have been threatened with having one by several different trucking companies. I know felons who drive for felons that are constantly victimized and want to leave but cannot.
greg says
Woah, cmon here.
What’s the point of not getting felonies if there’s no lasting punishments following the act that earned them a felony!
If I had the option to physically strike some of the people I work with, in this industry- I would!
And frankly, the only thing stopping me the majority of the time is the fact that it would earn me a criminal record- something I cannot have because I wont be able to get a decent job.
Basically, your inability to control yourself and your actions are not my, or the general motoring populations problem.
Chris says
Excellent reply. This job requires more mental and emotional control than most.
Billy says
Might I ask what form of reward does one get for serving his country, being honorably discharged, never punching out his wife, a neighbor or boss. Never commuted a crime that he blamed his youth upon. Never failed a random drug test in 43the years of being in drug tested field of work?
Sorry but fot those that have behaved I see this plan as a way to reduce wages even further
Lisa says
Are you in the Reno, NV area?
Buddy Boy says
I am one of those men. I had a terrible history when I was younger. I did my time, changed my life, and became a member of society. I lost countless opportunities because of my record.. Mind you I never took as much as a paper clip from any employer. But it said THIEF on my record so that was a huge red flag. Would you let a guy drive 200k worth of freight around if you thought he might have a look in the trailer? I dont blame anyone but myself. However, after looking hi & low I found someone that only went back 7 years and got my chance. I now drive a 53′ reefer up & down the East Coast. Sure its a crappy lane but its where I live so im good. All i can say is take a good look at a guy before you say no. He may be worth a shot. He may be a good guy after all.
Eric says
What about depression? When I renew my CDL they always ask if I have been treated for depression. Apparently you can’t drive a big truck if you have. Isn’t that some serious discrimination? A great many people take anti-depressants in this country and it doesn’t barr them from employment.
Tim M. says
This is just another way for trucking companies to keep wages low. And not pay a fair wage for hours worked. Truck drivers are singled out to work 70 hours for a 40 hour check !!
carl says
i’d hire a murderer before a drug smuggler, and a burglar before a pedophile. i would even hire someone with vehicular manslaughter if the insurance co. would let me. this is good policy, just because a person was a criminal doesn’t make them one forever, and some people without records are crazier than loons. i hear them on the c.b. all the time. how’d they get jobs?
carl says
@ Marteee999, it is the governments business if you discriminate for non work related reasons. remember that document that guarantees “equal protection under the law”? well if you are going to be so narrowmindedly hateful, then yes, the government can tell you to stop it. time to grow up, freedom doesn’t mean you are free to do anything you want. (that would be anarchy)
Poops Alot says
I don’t believe they should get a second chance, You commit a crime, you pay for it the rest of your life. I don’t care if you was eighteen at the time and are now forty-five. If you did it once you will do it again. This is America people, you get one shot.
Jesse says
If it’s older than 10 years give them a chance…
chris preston says
Not everyone is a criminal for life. I’ll bet if you think back you could find something in your own past that you could have gone to jail or prison for. Just because you haven’t been jailed for the stupid thing you might have done doesn’t make you any more a candidate for law-abiding citizen….Such hypocrites!!!
chris preston says
Who hauls a million dollars worth of freight but armored cars?
bilbo baggins says
My late father was an attorney who was disbarred and imprisoned for stealing trust fund money from his clients. After his release he could not find work and became a self employed handyman to support his wife and minor children. When you looked up the word “work ethic” in the dictionary his face was plastered next to it’s explanation. Would I hire a felon where time had passed since he got out of prison? Like everyone else, on a case by case basis. But in a heartbeat.
bbq dave says
I believe this is a step in the right direction. However even if it goes through one still has to contend with the insurance companies out there. I am an owner operator, transporting produce but because I was the cash cow running with traffic at 70 out in the middle of nowhere in a New Mexico speed trap posted 55 I now have to pay over $2,500 more for my insurance. Nevermind the fact in 40 years I’ve never dented a fender.
As for those of you that object to the proposed changes because they never had a criminal conviction. I can only wonder how many of you people don’t JUST because you never got caught!!! I would hire someone that has made an error and made the effort to change their lives, than some whiny mealy mouth person that doesn’t even have a set of balls to get involved to change our industry. In the 70s and 80s we watched after each other and gave one another and our families a hand when needed. NOW take a look around you and then PAT YOURSELF on the back for the industry that you’ve created!!!
Jess says
I read your post, thank you so much for taking the time to relay your story. I know a man in the position of just like the men being talked about here. Since you alreay have your job. Culd you please tell me what company hired you. So I could tell my friend to apply there. He’s about to loose everything because he cant get a job. Bless you and thank you. Jesse
willie says
we the job searchers should start screening companies in the same manner they screen applicants. i mean they look at us and think why would i want to hire you. well we should look at them and think why would i want to work for you.
EdRoberts says
Hey Brian,
That is fine by ME, if you would not like to work for ME! I mean, to rob someone, is in most folks book, way, way, more than ‘a mistake’. It is evil. Hey, do you want to do ANY ‘work at all’?? Or you still thinking about that ol’ ‘easy way’ that you chose once before.
You CAN, you know, start your OWN business and BE YOUR OWN BOSS.
Can you buy a lawnmower? Gas can? Can you mow grass, and get customers? It might of course not fit what you need if you have family, etc, tho . It might not pay enough. There are multitudes of craftsmen jobs, if people want to learn. The only thing holding anyone back is their own desire to make it work. You sound like you already sealed your fate tho,,,’perhaps I’d not like to work for you’. Sounds like you can’t work for someone; unwilling to ‘take orders’. It is about doing what they want ya to do. Not what you want to do,,,it is what they want. I don’t think you are rehabilitated, nor have learned what you did so long ago. You are an invader, a manipulator,,,a little boy trying to get his way, and can’t get it. I wish you luck, I really do. You need some help, dude. Some better help than I can give. You need a lesson to learn kindness; hey tho, don’t we all. I know I’m not perfect. We can only make good choices and learn to be decent. It takes practice. Good luck/not trying to hurt your feelings.
Well hey Bub, rob somebody again and you might get sent straight to Jesus. If someone robbed me, I’d blaze their ass. IF tho, they kindly asked if I could help them, maybe I could help them with a loan, or just some spare change. You go taking it, and well, you just don’t know who is ready to put down that rabid dog. Learn some manners. Or not, as you see fit. It is your choice, see?
EdRoberts says
D.A.C. Reports, which is now called ‘HireRight’, can only go back 7 years on Motor Vehicle and Employer reports. I just got my report this last week. On it is an employer I had over 7 years ago. Here is what the report says: “Note: A seven year period has elapsed since employment ended. It is prohibited to disclose work record, eligibility for re-hire, reason for leaving, and accident information”.
I swear to Jesus I typed it just as it reads. Not all smaller companies USE this ‘HireRight’. Did you know that? I know of one in OKC that doesn’t. Western Flyer Express, tho they say no felonies in 10 years. Will tho, they check and do some Criminal Search? I doubt it. I doubt most smaller companies will do a criminal search. I’d by-god lie to them, if I needed to work and needed a job. Let them find it, if it is over 7 years ago. They will find it before they hire you, believe it. Or not. If they don’t find it, don’t volunteer it. Unless of course you are a moron and need someone beatin’ your ass’ thru the world. I spoke to these folks and they did say you needed 2 years in the last 5 of verifiable experience. They don’t have a whole lot of info out there, and what is shown on TRR is sort of lame and negative. They might be ‘fly by night’ tho they have 200 trucks so they are doing something right. They say they get lots of miles. Going e-log book so you can’t cheat,,,. Get your rest, work hard, mind your business, save your Dollars… what is the problem. Work, and rest. Ain’t much more going on anyway. These guys only have a 2 day Orientation. She said if you pass the drug test the next day you will ‘go’ after they do the paperwork the first day. I’d say there are quite a few companies that might hire you if you try to find local smaller companies. I dunno. It ain’t easy life for sure.
I’d keep my mouth shut on DUI’s etc that are 7 years and older. Same w/felonies. Newer than 7 years, and you might have to do something else because they are going to find it, I’d guess.
7 and over, it is home free. The larger companies DO the nationwide criminal background checks. They do “USIS Widescreen National Criminal” check. And State, and County. So the big companies will be able to find it anyway. Ask any potential employers if they ‘use DAC’…or HireRight. Just tell them ‘you are curious what is on your report’ and if they use it. If you got a good driving record, that is what will save you. Gotta be a good driver.
EdRoberts says
I for one am sick and tired of the ongoing thinking in America that the ONLY way to earn money is to work for someone else!!! I worked for over half my life working for myself, running my own companies, being in the Trades business. I learned how to be a welder, and other jobs. I got my own work, hustled, ran a Yellow Pages ad, and worked as self employed. Can’t say I earned more than I did as a trucker tho,,,hahahha. But I had fun, was free, and I took care of business. It takes money and talent to start, but I apprenticed, then hustled jobs by being honest, doing the work, then contract read ‘payable upon completion’. Something about doing it that way, people liked. I see why too, with all the con artists. So, it takes momentum to get it going but this is America. Hells’ bells’ they are swimming here and takin’ boats fromChina and everywhere else and working hard. Look at those Chinese Buffets and they whole family is one big ol’ business cooking,,,all of them working and making money. It can be done.
Kimberly says
I’m glad to hear others talk like this, and appreciated your article… I work in reentry, and while I understand the need to “protect” the public I also see how it affects those who have come home. If these guys can’t get a job, they’ll revert back to what they know to survive. I see the vicious circle! I tell the churches many times that if we don’t open our arms to them, and help them do right then the drug dealer down the street – does and will certainly lead them back where they came from, and we warehouse them in prisons. In Texas, that’s approximtely $40,000 a year to incarcerate someone – if we would spend that rather on employment/vocational skills/family and/or anger management/mentoring and/or discipling… this world would be a much better place. We are incarcerating men who are working age, with families, and by the time they get out… they’re devastated, with no more employable skills than when they walked in, unable to provide for their families. They are set up for failure oftentimes…
Emmett Solomon, with Restorative Justice quotes… “We lock a guy up with a bunch of bad guys for six years, average, open the gate and tell him now go be a good guy.” Insanity…
Thank you for your article, we know that truck driving is one of those areas where guys are actually employable… thank you trucking industry for giving these guys the chance they need!
Chris says
Bull. Your dealing with flawed people if they say “If I can’t get a job that pays what I want I will go take what I want.” That is the definition of a criminal.
Martee99 says
Carl you have no idea what you’re talking about. Companies discriminate all the time. It’s called the “application process.” Show me under federal labor law where I cannot decide whether or not to hire someone based on their past conduct.? Let’ s see you hire an “ex-pedophile” as your kids babysitter then come talk to us about discrimination and fair play all that other nonsense.
mike morley says
I have an incident , not accident , no points , no ticket issued on my DAC. I was told by A recruiter that I would have to drive for another company for A , incident free, before I would be considered for hire. In attempting A right hand turn out of A parking lot after passing up my delivery point , the right rear trailer tandems sunk in the muddy berm. A winch-out , which I agreed to pay for was necessary. No damage , no injuries , I finished my delivery and continued working. As an honest , honorable person , I took pictures of the scene. Although they were not even requested I submitted them to our ” safety officer ” , A woman from accounting arbitrarily placed in that position. The following week I was fired because ” it looked like there could have been A roll-over”. There was no posibility of the tanker rolling over. Ihad the wrecker operator sling the right rear corner of the ICC Bumper and the added reinforcement , lift until level with the roadbed and I drove it away. Avoidable ? Yes. My fault , yes. As I swung left to execute the right turn cars began to enter the lot at high speed coming back from lunch and I did not go as far left as I had intended. I should have waited and been assured of adequate clearance. My deliveries were seldom to the same customer, unfamiliar territory was the norm , and as the driver it was my responsibility to exercise due diligence. No excuses intended. I would love to go back to work , things have gotten pretty bleak around here …….but now we have DAC , no quarter asked;none given. OK , I’m finished whining ! LOL………
sheila says
Do you mind telling me what company you are working for. I too am a convicted felon and soon be finishing school. Thanks
Fred says
Oh yes we lost our right to vote.
But still have to pay taxes. Huh. Seems to me it is whatever suits the needs of big pockets on the hill.
Young and in trouble big deal, i a
Also got in trouble when young. I’m 53 now and have drove all all my life. I have 7 counts of felonies.
Owned my own truck until 2011. Had enough and sold it.
I have around 3 1/2 million miles. Never had a chargeable accident.
Most companies only go back 7 years. And, you do not have to disclose anything past that time.
I know I’ve done it at a big company, in orientation they took two guys out because of past criminal records. That did not disclose it.
Never said a word to me. So it can be done.
And yes you can have hazmat with a felony.
These companies that will not hire EX- felons. Are not worth working for in the first place.
They make the best employees simply because they know if the screw up they may never get another chance.
Big companies are just that. To big for there own good.
Good luck to all.
If i had to do it all over again today. I would look at doing something other than driving.
It is not the same as it was when i though it would be a great career.
Trucking is no fun any longer. To many with there hand out wanting a piece.
And the DOT all have Chrystal balls to see what might happen. Then give you a ticket for it.
It’s all a big joke anymore.
John says
Whoever said that driving was a right? It’s not in the constitution nor is riding a horse. Driving is a privilidge that can be taken away. The article doesn’t say how many of those americans that are under “correctional control” are reincarcerated after being released.
Glen says
The EEOC wants to change hiring rules for trucking companies? Is the EEOC pretending like Walmart doesn’t do criminal background checks on their applicants and hire according to results? Is the EEOC going to get the Fed to change their requirements for Haz-Mat and TWIC. Next is the EEOC going to say we are discriminating to do background checks on the guards being hired all over the country to guard our children in schools? I would suggest random drug and alcohol testing for the EEOC.
ATM OTR says
Mike you’re one of the VERY lucky few. There were guys in my class (CDDT Omaha) that had felonies and reckless driving convictions that really hurt them, These were guys that could drive Ms Daisy around the world (very good drivers), and yet they were not getting hired at some of the better companies because of it. I think that’s very unfair. Because a person makes a mistake years ago doesn’t make them unemployable. What about the people that do “white collar crimes” like embezzling hundreds of thousands of dollars. IF they get caught, they would be more of a risk driving some of the cargo truckers carry than a person that years ago made a small mistake and had it follow them forever. A recruiters job is very difficult trying to make a determination of which to hire. Bring down those walls and I guarantee crime will go down and there might not be such a great need for QUALIFIED drivers. Thanks to all and BE SAFE..
Uncle Tony says
I have owned my own business for 30 years. I built the business not the government. I still exercise my right not to hire somebody for the simple reason, I don’t like them, and I don’t need to elaborate on why I don’t like them. I sign the paychecks so I make the rules.
Jim says
I’ve hired 2 Ex-cons. Was sorry I hired each within 3 weeks. I’ll never take the chance again.
twig says
what do u consider a criminal….a guy who picked up a prostitute? thats sexual solicitation. a registerable sex offense..
James C says
If a person can’t act responsibly in their personal life, what makes anyone think they’ll act responsibly behind the wheel of an 80,000-pound vehicle?
If I see “Felony” on their application, they’re not hired. If it was a violent felony, I don’t care when or where or what the circumstances were. Period.
If it was a misdemeanor, I may ask what happened. If I detect even the slightest bit of the person trying to blow smoke up my arse about what happened or about what kind of guy he is, he is not hired. Period.
There are already enough uncouth, ignorant, unable-to-control-their-tempers rednecks driving trucks in America, without giving cart blanch to allowing criminals to get behind the wheel just so we can satisfy some possible question about “Discrimination.”
The D.O.T. is breathing down our necks like we’re a bunch of irresponsible Archie-Bunker types already. Want to start hiring felons on a regular basis now? The D.O.T. would start slathering at the jaws every time a truck got pulled over. And that isn’t even considering what it will do to insurance rates for big trucks. And we won’t even talk about public confidence and trust. Tom and Jill America will start seeing every other truck as a possible “Duel (Steven Spielberg film 1971)” situation just waiting to happen.
Sorry, bud, you robbed a bank. Fast food joints are always hiring.
You are needed or wanted behind the wheel of an 80,000-pound tractor trailer. Thank you, but our jobs are hard enough already.
Saul says
What’s the name of the company?
Deanna says
I agree with you.. I quit drinking and have a felony that is 6 years old. Im getting turned down left and right.
Decius Attius says
The only thing that separates a felony from a misdemeanor is a single day. Any sentence of confinement over 364 days is classed as a felony.
I wish some of these naysayers would explain what makes any and all felons “unemployable”, and back their opinions up with actual facts.
Our system of “justice” does not operate on the premise that convicted persons “pay a debt” – our system is retributive, not restorative.
People are so scared of “criminal types”, it’s ridiculous… I managed to miss a fine payment years ago and was charged with “failure to pay”, which is a misdemeanor in my home state. Oddly enough, I was deemed “unemployable” by several companies, but the State Police were more than happy to accept me… unfortunately, the employment process was much too long, and I couldn’t afford to come off the road just to sit and wait to be called in.
Samuel says
I my self am an Excon I served seven and a half years behind bars I got a collage degree why being lock up to try and better my self upon release I found it hard to find employment I then whent back to school to get my CDl I have been a driver now for eight years I don’t do bad but would love to do better I being an Excon can see the point from both sides I am considerd a violent criminal when I did what I did as a teen but I grew up and I won’t let my self for get what I did because it was wrong
Some people make bad choices and continue to do so some make a bad choice and never for get it and become a better person but come on after so many years the ones who have proven they have changed should be given a chance I am stuck working for less and trying to take care of my family on a $500 a week pay with no benifits so people need to rethink about what life is about I will never say what I did was because I was stupid or I was young nore am I proud of it but it took place in my life so now I have to live with it
So I am saying some people do desver a second chane and some don’t and to the people trying to get excons more jobs watch what you are doing get an ex druggie and he gets stressed starts using again even three years down the road he could kill some one with a big truck
meme says
I’m an XFelon, 2000 convicted for DWI, when I got out apllied at a UTB financial aid, was working welding, suddenly got financial approval, went to Medical Billing school, my family and PO said why if I knew I wasn’t gonna be hired, God touches peoples hearts and I’ve been blessed getting hired, but now I wanna change careers to Truck Driving, now again negativity from people, but like I said it’s God who opens doors or shuts