Some argue that information uncovered in a credit check could offer clues as to an applicant’s likelihood to commit embezzlement or theft, but a bill considered by the D.C. Council Judiciary Committee would largely prohibit employers from screening for such information. The Fair Credit in Employment Amendment Act would make credit information a protected trait covered by the D.C. Human Rights Act of 1977. The bill would, however, allow an employer to check the credit history of a candidate if the company had a credible reason to do so. Those who perform a credit check without a credible reason could face serious financial penalties.
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