A new Ohio law is making it easier for people with felony convictions to qualify for employment opportunities.

House Bill 268 shortens the waiting period for a Certificate of Qualification for Employment (CQE), allowing an individual with a felony conviction to petition one year after release from incarceration, even while still on parole, post-release control or community control. Previously, applicants generally had to complete supervision before the one-year waiting period began.

“Manufacturers are looking for every opportunity to widen the talent pipeline,” said Dave O’Neil, Ohio Manufacturers’ Association (OMA) director of communications. “This gives employers access to a broader pool of candidates while still preserving an individualized review process.”

CQEs can also provide important liability protections to employers. Matt Austin Labor Law notes that employers that know about a valid certificate when hiring can receive immunity from certain negligent-hiring claims, while the certificate can also serve as evidence that the employer exercised due care.

Austin recommends manufacturers review their application, background-check and criminal-history policies so CQE holders are properly identified and considered as the new eligibility window takes effect. 9/23/2026