West Virginia- Employers in West Virginia and neighboring states continue to report trouble finding workers. New data show hiring people who have served their time after a criminal conviction, known as second-chance hiring, can benefit both employers and communities.
TaLisa Carter – an associate professor of justice, law and criminology at American University, and an affiliated scholar at the Urban Institute – said many people are released from prison without proper identification and face housing challenges.
She said a focused resume can help level the playing field for candidates who are valuable to employers, but may not check all of the conventional boxes.
“A resume that’s skill based really presents opportunity,” said Carter, “an opportunity for the formerly incarcerated to put their best foot forward in the workplace.”
According to the Urban Institute, labor shortages are most common in the hospitality and retail trade industries. According to federal data, West Virginia had around 30,000 unemployed residents in 2024.
Carter added that second chance hiring also has community benefits, as the vast majority of individuals currently incarcerated will eventually be released back into society.
“Employment is one thing that studies repeatedly show promotes economic inclusion,” said Carter, “but also reduces recidivism and strengthens families and neighborhoods.”
According to the Vera Institute of Justice, people are less likely to reoffend and land back behind bars if they are able to maintain employment.
