TRENTON — Gov. Chris Christie signed into law today a bill that will require companies to wait until they have interviewed job applicants before asking if he or she has ever been convicted of a crime.

The measure, part of a two-year legislative journey for its advocates, was signed into law at the same time Christie approved a proposal that established an alternative pre-trial release system so that poor defendants aren't stuck in jail because they can't afford bail.

The bill (S2124) is known as the “ban the box” legislation because many job applications include a check box asking about an applicant’s criminal background.

“It’s been a long ride,” said state Sen. Sandra Cunningham (D-Hudson), the bill’s sponsor.

“We worked on this for the past two years and I’m just very happy that we were able to come up with a piece of legislation that’s friendly to business but that also helps people who need it,” she said. “I’m just happy he signed it.”

The governor’s office told Cunningham on Sunday he intended to sign the bill today on the steps of Trenton’s City Hall along with the bail reform measure.

Cunningham, who described having “tears of joy” when she heard the news, was among the various social activists, clergy and legislators who joined Christie for the signing.

“This is a state that believes every life is precious,” Christie said.

“Everyone deserves a second chance in New Jersey,” he said. “Today, we’re banning the box.”

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