Miller, Colleagues Celebrate Bipartisan Resolution Declaring April as Second Chance Month

Washington, D.C. - Last week, Congresswoman Miller (R-WV) joined Representatives Bruce Westerman (R-AR) and Danny K. Davis (D-IL), as well as Senators Cramer (R-ND) and Klobuchar (D-MN) in reintroducing the bipartisan, bicameral Second Chance Month Resolution. 

“In West Virginia, we know how important it is to provide everyone with opportunities to succeed. Recognizing April as Second Chance Month gives hope to those who are reentering the workforce after serving their time incarcerated. When we invest in our communities and put in place resources and support for people released from prisons and jails, we build stronger and safer communities. This resolution will bring more visibility to Second Chance programs that are instrumental in helping people across the nation get back on the right path as they reenter their communities,” said Congresswoman Miller.

“This is a nation of second chances. Offering incarcerated Americans the opportunity to succeed by reducing barriers preventing them from establishing good-paying jobs and earning sought-after respect is a critical key to reducing recidivism rates. By investing in these individuals who have proven to be committed to rectifying their mistakes, we are investing in the future success and safety of our communities. I am proud to introduce this resolution to recognize April as Second Chance Month. This piece of legislation champions second chances while highlighting the importance of restoring hope to individuals looking to reintegrate back into their communities with dignity,” said Congressman Westerman.

“There are millions of individuals in our country who have civil and criminal records that serve as barriers to obtaining education, technical skills, training, jobs, and government benefits. Second chances - and especially the Second Chance Act – help to reduce and remove these barriers.  Therefore, I am proud to join my colleagues in recognizing Second Chance Month.  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, thereby strengthening individuals, rebuilding families, and growing our economy,” said Congressman Davis.

"As Prison Fellowship marks its 50th anniversary, the Second Chance Month resolution reflects our longstanding commitment to justice that restores. We know that when unnecessary barriers to reentry are removed, people are better equipped to succeed, making our neighborhoods safer and stronger for everyone,” said Scott Peyton, Director of Government Affairs for Prison Fellowship.

Read the full resolution text here.

Background:

• This resolution recognizes April as Second Chance Month, raising awareness for unlocking opportunities for successful reentry into society following incarceration that ultimately reduces recidivism rates.
• Millions of American adults with a criminal record face enormous obstacles to successfully re-enter society upon release. When legal and social barriers prohibit a formerly incarcerated person from finding well-paying jobs, this not only negatively impacts them, but also has lasting negative effects for their families. Beyond that, securing gainful employment and being accepted in society has been proven to reduce the likelihood of these individuals returning to prison in the future, ultimately decreasing crime and improving public safety.
• This resolution is supported by Prison Fellowship, American Correctional Association, Brennan Center for Justice, CPAC, Due Process Institute, FAMM, Major County Sheriffs of America, Modern Fortis, National District Attorneys Association, Niskanen Center, Right on Crime, and Unify.US.

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