The EEOCs Guidelines on Criminal Records in the Employment ContextThe primary federal law providing protection against employment discrimination is Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is responsible for the administration of claims filed by employees, against employers, for alleged violations of Title VII. The EEOC also provides crucial guidance for employers and employees regarding discrimination in the workplace.On the issue of an applicants criminal history, the EEOC advises that employers consider certain factors before deciding whether to offer employment to an applicant. These factors include the seriousness of the criminal offense, how long ago the event occurred, and the type of job for which the applicant is applying. In other words, an employer should not summarily deny employment simply based on the existence of a criminal record. Discrimination Based on Prior Convictions is morally wrong and illegal.