In NY state it is illegal to discriminate unless the work has some connection to the crime, for example: sex offenders can’t be school teachers or child care professionals. Or, you cannot be unsupervised with money if you were found guilty of robbery or burglary. Your PO, if you have one, might be able to help you. There are also some charitable advocacy organizations that might be able to help.
For those that think we “molly coddle” ex-cons, answer this – How can we expect the ex-con to make it in society when extra roadblocks are thrown in their path?. Can they ever become productive? What alternative would yo suggest to reduce recidivism?
For those ex cons who think they should have a job just like anyone else, answer this – Why should employers hire you over laid off former employees or people just out of school without a criminal record? Which would you hire?
I don’t have a good answer. NY has a program that gives the employer an incentive to hire convicted felons. They will pay the employer about $2000 – $3000 per year for ex-con.
If your state has this program let the employer know . It is money in their pocket for taking the risk.
Good luck to you.