Covered employers
Private employers with 15 or more employees within the City of Austin for each working day in 20 or more calendar weeks of the current or preceding calendar year.
Timing of inquiry
Criminal-history inquiries (application or interview) are prohibited until after a conditional offer is extended. Job ads may not announce blanket exclusions.
Individualized assessment
Required individualized assessment must consider the nature and gravity of the offense, time elapsed, and nature of the job (mirroring EEOC 2012 guidance).
Adverse-action workflow
If the employer rescinds based on criminal history, it must provide a written statement to the candidate explaining the basis for the decision.
Notice & posting
City posts educational materials; employers must respond to City investigations and produce relevant records.
Enforcement & penalties
Equal Employment/Fair Housing Office. Civil penalty up to $500 per violation.
Citations
- Austin City Code Ch. 4-15