The Fair Hiring Opportunities for Public Employment (HOPE) Amendment Act of 2025 is designed to improve job prospects for returning citizens in the District of Columbia by establishing a ten-point hiring preference for graduates of approved transitional employment programs, such as Project Empowerment. The bill mandates that job postings clearly indicate eligibility for this preference and requires the Department of Human Resources (DCHR) to annually identify and communicate these programs to agency employers. This initiative aims to enhance transparency in the hiring process and support the reintegration of returning citizens into the workforce.

Additionally, the legislation introduces a "Relevance Screen" to assess the significance of criminal histories in relation to job responsibilities, ensuring that only relevant convictions are considered during hiring. It also mandates that applicants receive explanations for any hiring denials and establishes a structured appeals process. To further promote fairness, the bill requires DCHR to submit a confidential report to the Council at the end of each Council period, detailing hiring practices related to individuals with criminal records. Furthermore, a new definition of "Returning Citizen" is introduced, encompassing individuals who have been incarcerated for six months or more within the past five years, thereby enhancing clarity and fairness in the hiring process.