Michigan drops conviction box from job, license applications

Gov. Rick Snyder is ordering the state to no longer ask job applicants and people seeking certain occupational licenses to check a box if they have been convicted of a felony. Snyder, who announced the changes and issued an executive directive on Friday, said the box is being replaced with a statement by which applicants can affirm their good character. He encouraged private employers to also remove the checkbox, so people are not automatically disqualified or are discouraged from applying in the first place.