SW Arkansas Times

U.S. Representatives and Senators from both parties have introduced the Second Chance Month Resolution, a bicameral effort to recognize April as "Second Chance Month." The resolution is designed to bring attention to the challenges faced by formerly incarcerated individuals as they reintegrate into society.

The lawmakers involved in reintroducing this resolution include U.S. Representatives Bruce Westerman (R-AR), Lucy McBath (D-GA), Don Bacon (R-NE), Danny K. Davis (D-IL), Barry Moore (R-AL), Carol Miller (R-WV), and LaMonica McIver (D-NJ), along with U.S. Senators Kevin Cramer (R-ND) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN).

Rep. Westerman emphasized the importance of creating pathways for those who have fulfilled their legal obligations, stating, "Everyone deserves a second chance, and Congress must work to break down the stigmas attached to incarceration and reducing recidivism rates."

Rep. McBath noted that declaring April as Second Chance Month sheds light on the necessity of providing opportunities for gainful employment for those who have served their time.

Rep. Bacon highlighted the significance of Second Chance programs in healing families and assisting individuals to reintegrate into society, asserting, "They have helped reintegrate people back into society, heal families, and give much-needed mental health services."

Rep. Davis expressed his support for the resolution, underscoring the role of the Second Chance Act in removing barriers to education, skills training, and employment.

Reflecting on local impacts, Rep. Moore noted the positive effects she has witnessed in Alabama from offering training to incarcerated individuals, “The Lord shows us grace daily, and we should extend that same grace to individuals who have proven they are committed to rectifying their mistakes.”

Rep. Miller focused on the importance of investing in communities to build safer environments. "This resolution will bring more visibility to Second Chance programs," she stated.

Rep. McIver spoke about the essence of American values, saying that the resolution "will raise awareness for the barriers faced by previously incarcerated people and promote opportunities for them to create a new beginning for themselves."

Senator Cramer remarked on the nation's need for a redemption-focused justice system, while Senator Klobuchar reflected on the capacity for change she observed as a former prosecutor.

The resolution has the endorsement of various organizations, including Prison Fellowship, Brennan Center for Justice, Right on Crime, CPAC, Niskanen Center, FAMM, and the National District Attorneys Association.

Heather Rice-Minus, CEO and president of Prison Fellowship, highlighted the importance of this resolution in supporting those with criminal records. "Since Prison Fellowship launched Second Chance Month in 2017, we are honored to lead this growing national movement," she said.

Kate Trammell, Prison Fellowship's senior vice president of advocacy and legal, expressed hope for swift legislative action, noting the resolution's potential impact on community safety and personal dignity.

The resolution seeks to address the extensive legal and social barriers faced by the one in three Americans with a criminal record, a challenge reflected in the nearly 44,000 barriers identified by Prison Fellowship.

Second Chance Month aims to reduce the re-incarceration rate by offering effective reintegration pathways, contributing to public safety and economic growth.