COLUMBIA, Mo. (AP) — The Columbia City Council unanimously approved an ordinance that will prohibit employers from asking on applications whether a job seeker has a criminal record.

The ordinance, known as “ban the box” also prohibits businesses from conducting background checks until a conditional job offer is made.

Some business leaders objected to the ordinance, especially the delay in background checks. Supporters said the ban gives ex-offenders a better chance at a job, which reduces recidivism.

The Columbia Daily Tribune reports the city’s new ordinance is the most far-reaching of similar laws in Missouri cities because it applies to public and private employers. Similar ordinances in Kansas City and St. Louis apply only to public employees.