NEWARK, N.J. (AP) — President Barack Obama is announcing new rules that will prevent federal agencies from quickly screening out job applicants just because they have criminal records.

Obama says too many employers dismiss applicants because they've checked a box stating they have a criminal history. Obama says employers should "give folks a chance to get in the door."

The president made the comments in Newark, New Jersey, where he is calling for criminal justice reform and more programs to help former inmates reenter society.

Obama noted roughly 70 million Americans have some sort of criminal record. He says making sure those people can find jobs, housing and education is good for the economy.
Watch as Vice's Shane Smith talks about fixing the criminal justice system.

BET National News - Keep up to date with breaking news stories from around the nation, including headlines from the hip hop and entertainment world.
(Photo: AP Photo/Susan Walsh)