BALTIMORE, Md. (April 28, 2014)—Today, Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake released the following statement regarding the passage of the "Ban the Box" legislation: 

"Today's passage of the Ban the Ban box legislation is a critical component to not only helping to reduce unemployment, but also improving public safety by addressing recidivism. When it comes to the crime fight, we have to use every tool available, which includes creating opportunities for those who have paid their debt to society and want to turn their lives around. Access to a good job can make the difference between a repeat offender or a productive member of society. I commend the council for working to resolve various issues raised throughout the process, and ultimately passing this legialtion that moves Baltimore in the right direction."