Lots of New York Companies Hire Felons, But Should They?

In New York, more and more companies are stepping up to hire individuals with criminal records.

Businesses like Goodwill, McDonald’s, Home Depot, and Lowe’s are embracing second-chance hiring, giving people the opportunity to improve their lives.

It sounds great on paper, but it raises a big question: is hiring felons really worth the risk?

Let’s start with the good stuff.

Giving someone a second chance can be life-changing—not just for them but for the community as a whole.

Stable jobs are one of the best ways to keep people from reoffending, and programs like the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) even sweeten the deal for businesses with financial incentives for hiring individuals with criminal records.

Companies like Family Dollar, Dollar Tree, and Ace Hardware are showing that it’s possible to create inclusive workplaces while filling much-needed roles.

But it’s not all sunshine and rainbows.

There are risks involved, and some industries—like finance, healthcare, and childcare—have strict regulations that make hiring felons a tough sell.

Concerns about workplace safety, liability, and theft keep some employers on edge.

A lively Reddit discussion highlights both sides of the debate. One manager shared this success story:

“I hired a felon who was upfront about his past and genuinely wanted a fresh start. He turned out to be one of the most reliable, hardworking employees I’ve ever had.”

But not everyone’s experience has been positive:

“We gave someone a chance, but it backfired. They stole from the company, and it was a nightmare for everyone involved. It made us rethink the risks.”

Evaluating candidates on a case-by-case basis—looking at the nature of the offense, how much time has passed, and whether they’re truly ready for the workforce—can help mitigate risks.

Some companies also use probationary periods or mentorship programs to make sure everyone gets off on the right foot.

Whether hiring felons is worth it depends on the industry, the company’s priorities, and how much they’re willing to invest in making second chances work.