Should employers be allowed to look at credit history?

On Wednesday, January 18 a House committee will host a public hearing on a bill that prohibits employers from considering credit history in employment decisions.  

There is an exception to the law if credit history is “substantially related” to the job.

The House killed a similar bill in 2015. Opponents of the bill argued that employers need every tool at their disposal to make smart hiring decisions.

“At what point does restricting an employer’s ‘due diligence’ opportunities lead to reducing their desire to grow their business for fear of making the wrong decision?” wrote Rep. Gregory Hill. 

Supporters of the bill argue that employees have a right to keep some sensitive information, like credit history, private.

“This bill seeks to break the cycle of employees being unable to find work due to their poor credit history, because they cannot fix their credit history without a good job,” said Rep. Andrew White.  

The bill, HB 130, is sponsored by Renny Cushing.

Do you think all employers should be able to consider credit history in employment decisions?  Share your opinion in the comments.