Mississippi Employers Open to Fair Chance Hiring, See Opportunities to Expand Talent Pipeline

April 16, 2026

Jackson, Mississippi - A study released by the Mississippi Business Alliance (MSBA) Foundation and Magnolia Correctional Industries (MAGCOR) finds that Mississippi employers are broadly open to hiring individuals with prior justice involvement, highlighting an opportunity to strengthen the state’s workforce.

The Fair Chance Hiring Study surveyed hiring decision-makers across Mississippi to assess employer attitudes, practices and barriers related to hiring formerly incarcerated individuals.

The study found that a majority of employers are willing to consider these candidates, with many citing a belief that “people deserve a second chance.” Among businesses that have hired from this talent pool, nearly 9 in 10 reported positive outcomes.

“Mississippi’s workforce challenges require us to expand and better align our talent pipeline,” said Scott Waller, President of the MSBA Foundation. “This research shows that employers are willing, outcomes are strong, and with the right approach,, fair chance hiring connects more Mississippians to meaningful work while strengthening our economy.”

The survey included responses from MSBA members, as well as input from the general business community across the state. Employers in both groups identified job readiness - particularly skills, work ethic and interview performance - as key factors in hiring decisions. The research also revealed a gap in awareness of available programs and incentives, especially among small businesses.

The report calls for a more coordinated, data-driven approach to connect employers with training, incentives and reentry programs, noting that Mississippi has lacked employer-informed data to guide a statewide strategy.

“This study confirms what we see every day - when individuals are prepared and supported, they can succeed in the workforce,” said Garrett McInnis, Chief Executive Officer of MAGCOR Industries. “By strengthening connection between employers, training programs and reentry services, we can create more opportunities while helping meet Mississippi’s workforce needs.”

“Employment is often the first true vote of confidence someone receives after incarceration,” said Martha Claire Bullen, Chief Reentry Officer of MAGCOR. “When employers choose fair chance hiring, they are choosing to believe in redemption, resilience, and the power of work to heal families and communities.”

The study was conducted by the MSBA WorkFuture Institute for Workforce and Educational Excellence and support through a subgrant from MAGCOR as part of a U.S. Department of Labor Partners for Reentry Opportunities in Workforce Development (PROUD) grant administered by the Mississippi Department of Employment Security.

The full report is available at www.workfuturems.com

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About the Mississippi Business Alliance

As the State Chamber of Commerce and the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) affiliate, the MSBA is the unified voice for industry in Mississippi. Through vision, advocacy, and policy, the MSBA leads the way to a more prosperous economy for all Mississippians. From the legislature to the shop floor, we are a vigilant champion for our members, and we engage all stakeholders to create greater opportunities and build greater success.

About the Mississippi Business Alliance Foundation

The MSBA Foundation serves as the business community’s catalyst for research, leadership, and solutions that strengthen Mississippi’s workforce education, and economic development initiatives and connects learning to earning through its WorkFuture Institute for Workforce and Educational Excellence.

About MAGCOR

MAGCOR Industries is a state-established nonprofit created to help incarcerated individuals build stronger futures through rehabilitation work programs, job training, and reentry support services. By providing real work job skills, meaningful training, and a pathway toward stability, MAGCOR fosters successful reentry, reduce recidivism, and strengthens communities across Mississippi.