South Gwinnett News

U.S. Representatives and Senators have reintroduced a bipartisan resolution to designate April as Second Chance Month. The resolution aims to acknowledge and address the barriers faced by formerly incarcerated individuals as they attempt to reintegrate into their communities and gain employment. Representatives Lucy McBath, Bruce Westerman, Don Bacon, Danny K. Davis, Barry Moore, Carol Miller, LaMonica McIver, and Senators Kevin Cramer and Amy Klobuchar are backing the initiative.

Rep. McBath emphasized, "Declaring April as Second Chance Month highlights the importance of opening opportunities to formerly incarcerated workers and reducing obstacles to gainful employment so that we all have safer communities and our country is made stronger by a thriving workforce."

Rep. Westerman noted the significance of the resolution for those who have paid their debt to society. "Recognizing April as Second Chance Month is an excellent opportunity to raise awareness on the importance of creating pathways for the millions of Americans previously and currently incarcerated," he commented.

Rep. Bacon highlighted the positive impact of Second Chance programs, stating, "They have helped reintegrate people back into society, heal families, and give much-needed mental health services."

Rep. Davis expressed support for the resolution, which honors the efforts of various organizations. "Second Chance Month honors the work of non-profit organizations, faith-based entities, communities, governments, employers, and individuals that help those with records gain the skills, education, and employment needed to thrive."

Rep. Moore pointed to personal experiences in Alabama, suggesting that providing new skills to the incarcerated could impact recidivism rates. "This bipartisan resolution highlights the barriers that still exist for those with criminal records trying to reintegrate into their communities," he stated.

Drawing on West Virginia's experience, Rep. Miller commented on the role of Second Chance Month in supporting re-entering citizens. "Recognizing April as Second Chance Month gives hope to those who are reentering the workforce."

Rep. McIver emphasized the foundational aspect of second chances in the U.S. with the words, "This bipartisan resolution to recognize April as ‘Second Chance Month’ will raise awareness for the barriers faced by previously incarcerated people."

Senator Cramer remarked, "America is a nation of second chances." Senator Klobuchar, a former prosecutor, added, "This bipartisan resolution to recognize ‘Second Chance Month’ will bring awareness to these barriers and promote opportunities for those who have served their time."

The resolution has the endorsement of organizations like Prison Fellowship, as confirmed by their CEO, Heather Rice-Minus: "We are honored to lead this growing national movement that includes more than 1,000 partners committed to unlocking second chances." Additional support comes from entities including the Brennan Center for Justice and Right on Crime.

Kate Trammell from Prison Fellowship urged for a swift passage: "Supporting second chances recognizes the God-given dignity and potential of every person and reinforces our nation’s commitment to creating pathways for new beginnings."