Second Chance Month Spotlight: Progress, Partnerships, and Policy Wins
Friends,
April is Second Chance Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about both the opportunities and barriers for justice-involved people to obtain a true second chance.
As Second Chance Month comes to a close, we've been reflecting on the policies that have delivered transformative results and helped clear unnecessary obstacles to success for those with past justice-system involvement, opening up doors to new possibilities and looking forward as we continue that work all year long.
Expanding second chance opportunities is at the core of what we do at JAN. An enormous amount of our advocacy focuses on removing barriers to success for people who are working to move past their justice involvement, and this work, above others, receives the most overwhelming bipartisan support.
Across the country, lawmakers on both sides of the aisle understand that punishment should not last a lifetime, and when someone has paid their debt to society and done everything asked of them, we owe it to them and our broader community to put policies in place that support their success and potential.
We’re proud that since 2015, we have successfully advocated for the passage of 113 laws across 22 states that support second chances across topics including expungement, fines and fees reform, occupational licensing reform, driver’s license reform, and more.
This year we're advocating for the passage of three second chance bills that are close to the finish line in our states.
The Second Chance Business Coalition's Forum was a highlight of the month for us. It was energizing to be in the room at Georgetown University with employers, business leaders, and academics all engaged in the cross-sector work of expanding and supporting employment opportunities for people with criminal records.
Against that background, we had many conversations about the importance of elevating policy solutions alongside internal initiatives as a critical part of ensuring the durability of second-chance efforts. We left inspired, energized, and ready to turn that momentum into action!
JAN's Senior State Policy Manager, Estrella Lopez; Executive Director, Lauren Krisai; and External Affairs Director, Syrita Simpkins, attending the Second Chance Forum at Georgetown University.
While this month is a time for reflection and celebration, it’s also a time for a renewed call to action. JAN will continue to advocate for the passage of legislation that increases access to meaningful second chances this month and throughout the remainder of our state legislative sessions. Please consider supporting us to make our work more impactful!
