Rep. Humphrey Announces Passage of House Bill to Expand Employment Opportunities for Returning Citizens

COLUMBUS — State Rep. Latyna M. Humphrey (D-Columbus) today celebrated the passage of House Bill (HB) 268, bipartisan legislation to help returning citizens reintegrate into society by reducing unnecessary barriers to employment.

“This legislation is about second chances,” said Rep. Humphrey. “House Bill 268 makes a small but meaningful change that allows people who have paid their debt to society to move forward sooner—working, supporting their families, and contributing to their communities. When we remove barriers to employment, we strengthen both lives and local economies.”

The bill passed the Ohio House with strong bipartisan support, with a vote of 93-0.

House Bill 268 modifies the waiting period for individuals with felony convictions to apply for a Certificate of Qualification for Employment (CQE)—a certificate that helps those with prior criminal convictions overcome certain legal barriers to employment and occupational licensing.

Under current law, individuals must wait one year after completing all community control or probation requirements before applying for a CQE. House Bill 268 allows individuals to apply one year after their release from incarceration, even if they remain under supervision. This change aligns the CQE process with the recently enacted Certificate of Qualification for Housing (CQH), which Rep. Humphrey co-sponsored in the 135th General Assembly.

House Bill 268 now heads to the Ohio Senate for further consideration.