Bryant Jackson-Green ― Re-entry reform must be a policy priority in 2016

Criminal-justice reform can only be successful if policymakers work to remove barriers to employment and work.

(via Illinois Policy)

Most people expect that a criminal offender will have to serve some time in prison, both as punishment and as a means to protect public safety. But too often, people overlook the fact that the criminal-justice system in Illinois continues to punish ex-offenders who’ve already completed their prison sentences and parole – who’ve already repaid their “debt to society.” Many former offenders are locked out of jobs and stable employment even after they’ve completed their sentences.

The single biggest factor in reducing crime and poverty in communities throughout the state is employment. For criminal-justice reform to be successful, Illinois must figure out how to promote job opportunities for former offenders. The more barriers there are to work and employment, the more likely it is that ex-offenders will resort to returning to crime.

Here are three policy changes that Illinois politicians should consider in 2016.

Read the full article HERE.