A proposal in Mount Vernon would give some ex-cons a second chance as a taxi driver.

Mount Vernon Police Commissioner Shawn Harris has asked City Council to consider legislation that would allowed convicted felons to apply for a temporary provisional taxi license.

Felons are currently banned for life from driving a taxi in the city.

"Jobs are one of the best deterrents to crime. This legislation is designed to do two things: Make it easier for people to find work and keep the public safe," says Harris.

Though the legislation would lift the lifetime ban, it would still be strict. It excludes anyone convicted of a felony related to sex crimes or terrorism from applying.

Other safeguards include that any applicant must be crime-free for at least seven years.