Mass. House OKs Changes To Criminal Records System

Massachusetts House lawmakers have approved a bill tightening access to criminal records.

The House approved the bill on a 138-17 vote with no debate.

Prisoner advocates have been pushing for an overhaul to the state's Criminal Offender Record Information system, known as CORI, which they said makes it difficult for those with criminal records to get jobs.

Advocates say legislation is needed to bar employers from asking about arrests or convictions on job applications and to shorten the amount of time that employers have access to criminal records.

The Senate approved a more detailed version of the bill last year. Both versions must be reconciled before heading back to both chambers for a final vote.

Gov. Deval Patrick says he looks forward to working with the House and Senate to get a strong bill on his desk.