San Francisco (October 10, 2013) – Timothy P. Silard, president of the Rosenberg Foundation, released the following statement today following Governor Jerry Brown’s signing of legislation to “ban the box,” removing questions about criminal records from public-agency job applications across the state.

“California has taken a bold step by removing the small but powerful barrier – a box on a job application – that stands in the way of formerly incarcerated people getting a second chance to live productive lives.

As a former prosecutor, I know that stable employment is a powerful crime-fighting tool, helping individuals rebuild their lives and avoid returning to jail or prison. The Rosenberg Foundation applauds Governor Jerry Brown for signing this important piece of legislation into law, which will go a long way toward helping formerly incarcerated people turn their lives around, take care of themselves and their families, and make positive contributions to our communities.”

For more on the movement to “ban the box” around the country, read: “A job can help stop prison’s revolving door”