Johns Hopkins commits to giving those with criminal record a second chance

Nineteen companies from across the nation, including The Johns Hopkins Hospital and Health System in Baltimore, have signed President Barack Obama administration's Fair Chance Business Pledge.

The pledge calls on members of the private sector to eliminate barriers that may prevent those with a criminal record from gaining access to employment, training, education and other basic tools required for life success.

According to the pledge, the companies commit "to providing individuals with criminal records, including formerly incarcerated individuals, a fair chance to participate in the American economy."

They also commit to reducing barriers to a fair shot at a second chance, including practices like "banning the box" by delaying criminal history questions until later in the hiring process; ensuring that information regarding an applicant's criminal record is considered in proper context; and engaging in hiring practices that do not unnecessarily place jobs out of reach for those with criminal records, according to a news release.

Companies signing the pledge also include: American Airlines, Busboys and Poets, The Coca-Cola Company, Facebook, Georgia Pacific, Google, Greyston Bakery, The Hershey Company, Koch Industries, Libra Group, PepsiCo, Prudential, Starbucks, Uber, Under Amour/Plank Industries, Unilever and Xerox.

Later this year, federal officials will release a second round of pledges.

Companies and organizations interested in joining the Fair Chance Business Pledge can sign up here.