Unemployed need not apply?

Today I read an article by CNN that in certain states - unemployed workers are reading job ads that indicate "unemployed need not apply" or "do not bother applying if you do not already have a job". Are we completely mental?

Yes

I had a serious work outage from 2001 until early 2004. I did a bit of work - but not enough to really support myself. Prior to 2001 - job offers were no problem. I had found that recruiters who were previously nice to me - were harsh and rude. On interviews I was treated poorly. When I talked about my experience - there was no empathy.

Anyone can lose their job at any time. That is a fact. It is silly to assume that those not working are not "the best". I have heard too many times "we only hire the top 10% from the best schools" - does that promise you you're getting the best? I have worked with Stanford grads - and those top drawer people - not always the best. How do you know when you have the best? Who established that unrealistic standard?

You wont know you're getting the best until you interview, hire and have them deliver the goods for you. Jumping to conclusions and denying access to people who are down on their current fortune means you are setting America up for failure.... same as bypassing sound maintenance procedures and being responsible for the worst oil spill to date.

Pick better criteria for finding the best.