The Fair Hiring Opportunities for Public Employment (HOPE) Amendment Act of 2025 seeks to improve employment prospects for returning citizens in the District of Columbia by establishing a ten-point hiring preference for graduates of qualifying transitional employment programs, such as Project Empowerment. This amendment to Title 6-B of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations ensures that job postings inform candidates about their eligibility for this preference. Furthermore, the bill introduces a structured process for evaluating criminal histories, allowing only relevant convictions and pending charges to be considered, thereby promoting fairness and transparency in the hiring process.

To support returning citizens further, the bill requires that applicants needing assistance with derogatory information in their criminal history reports be connected to community organizations offering career development resources. It mandates formal written notifications for applicants deemed unsuitable for positions, detailing the reasons for denial and the appeals process. The Department of Human Resources (DCHR) is tasked with submitting annual reports to the Council on hiring practices for returning citizens, ensuring accountability. Additionally, the bill defines "Returning Citizen" as individuals who have been incarcerated for a cumulative period of six months or more within the five years preceding their employment application, and it includes provisions for a fiscal impact statement and the process for its effective date.