NEW YORK - Following the success of the first campaign launch in 2024, the Center for Employment Opportunities recently announced its ‘More Than a Background’ 2026 campaign.
CEO’s policy agenda is driven by people directly impacted by the justice system. The campaign began as a public awareness campaign addressing overreliance on background checks, gathering partners and advocates across Michigan, Colorado, New York, Ohio, and Oklahoma to transform systems that block access to employment and essential resources.
According to CEO, this campaign is a policy driven, multi-state initiative to ensure that justice-impacted people can access identification, meet basic needs, secure meaningful employment, and build economic independence.
CEO reports that in 2025, 67% of more than 650 formerly incarcerated people lost job opportunities due to their criminal record; 18% lost at least 11 opportunities, and 38% lacked essential identification upon release.
CEO and its partners say they will advance and support key policies, including Vital Documents Reform and Fair Chance Employment legislation.
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