Syracuse, New York Ban the Box Law for Criminal History Takes Effect March 22, 2015

Beginning March 22, 2015, a new ban the box ordinance takes effect in Syracuse, New York. It applies to City of Syracuse employers and all contractors or vendors that conduct business with the city. Affected employers are required to remove any questions pertaining to criminal history on job applications. In addition, they are prohibited from inquiring about criminal convictions or conducting a background check until a candidate is found to be qualified and receives a conditional offer of employment.

Under the law, the impacted employers can rescind an offer of employment, but must do the following prior to taking action:

  •  Comply with the New York Correction Law Article 23-A
  • Notify the applicant of the intent to take adverse action and furnish the applicant with a copy of the criminal report.
  • Highlight or identify the convictions that justify the retraction of the job offer.
  • Provide the applicant with 5 business days (after the individual receives a copy of the report and adverse action notice) to challenge the information; then the employer must review all documentation provided by the applicant before making a final decision.


The legislation allows the City of Syracuse Mayor to cease or halt any contract and/or agreement that violates the new law. Various positions are exempt from the ordinance, such as police or peace officer jobs.

The ordinance contains a provision that allows aggrieved individuals to file a civil action to seek injunctive relief, damages, attorney’s fees and other relief from an employer that violates the ordinance. Fines of $500 for the first occurrence and $1,000 for each offense thereafter can be imposed.

To obtain a copy of the ordinance, click here.

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