A Con Job? No, (Ex) Cons with Jobs.

Can we be real for a minute? Most of us have made a mistake in our lives. Some mistakes might be really small - Karen, I'm looking at you and your new "live, laugh, love" sign. Others might be really big, requiring you to serve time in prison as punishment. 

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Once someone has served their time, should Michigan companies be encouraged to hire them? 

Here's Five Fast Facts …… :

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1. 📊 Just the numbers - There are currently about 33,000 prisoners in Michigan. And there are just over 109,000 job postings on the Michigan Talent Connect website. 

2. ❓❓ So, what's the problem? Even though there's a worker shortage in many industries, it's still hard for many ex-convicts to find jobs after incarceration, mainly due to the stigma around their imprisonment. 

3. ⚖️ Is it fair? A recent study shows that people with criminal records stay with employers longer and are less likely to quit. 

4. 🙅‍♂️ Not my problem - Or is it? Because more people than ever have spent time in prison, there's been a draining effect on the workforce. The result has been higher unemployment rates and higher prices at the checkout counters. 

5. ☎️ Help for those who need it - One organization trying to make a difference is the Center for Employment Opportunities. They provide employment services to individuals impacted by a criminal justice history.

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🔥Bottom line: Employment after prison is necessary for those who want to reconnect in society and lead productive lives. And it's good for businesses, too - far too many companies face serious labor shortages and shouldn't ignore people who want to work.

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So what do you think? Should Michigan companies hire people with a record?

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