Wisconsin is the latest state to consider banning the use of credit histories in hiring decisions.  A bill introduced in the Wisconsin legislature last month would add credit history to the list of unfair discriminatory practices prohibited under state law.   An exception would be available, however, where an applicant’s credit history is substantially related to the job’s requirements.  

Connecticut and New York have already enacted such credit history legislation.  States considering a similar ban include California, Michigan, Missouri, New Jersey, and Ohio.  The federal Fair Credit Reporting Act also creates disclosure obligations for employers that use credit reports.