CRIMINAL JUSTICE RE-ENTRY AND SECOND CHANCES
When someone serves their time, that sentence should end — not follow them for life.
Yet for millions of Americans, a criminal record becomes a permanent barrier to jobs, housing, and education. We believe in accountability, but we also believe in redemption — and a system that offers a path back, not a lifelong punishment.
THE PROBLEM
Nearly 1 in 3 Americans has some form of criminal record.
Returning citizens face automatic rejection for jobs, housing, and even vocational licenses.
Parole and probation systems too often act as revolving doors, sending people back to prison for technical violations, not crimes.
Lack of ID, transportation, or counseling leaves many people stranded right after release.
Employers and landlords are rarely given incentives or protections to hire or rent to returning citizens.
We say we want people to rebuild their lives — then we make it nearly impossible to do so.
OUR PLAN - REAL SECOND CHANCES
We will build a justice system that restores people instead of recycling them:
Automatic Record Expungement — For nonviolent offenses after a set period of good behavior, with no application required.
Fair Chance Hiring & Housing Laws — Ban blanket discrimination against returning citizens; give tax incentives for employers and landlords who open doors.
Transitional Reentry Hubs — One-stop centers for IDs, housing, job placement, and counseling — staffed by trained peers and social workers.
Probation & Parole Reform — Replace punitive technical violations with supportive interventions focused on employment and stability.
Education Behind Bars & Beyond — Access to GED, trade, and college programs during incarceration and post-release.
Family Reconnection Support — Counseling, mediation, and reunification services to rebuild family networks that reduce recidivism.
Small Business Reentry Grants — Help returning citizens start businesses and employ others coming out of the system.
WHY IT MATTERS
Justice isn’t just about punishment — it’s about transformation.
Every successful reentry is a story of redemption, a family rebuilt, and a community made safer.
When we give people second chances, we reduce crime, strengthen families, and restore hope.
“A past mistake shouldn’t erase a future. Justice without mercy is just vengeance in a nicer suit.”