Every day, more than 1,700 people are released from prison. In the decade I spent as a probation and parole officer, I saw how much is riding on their success. Overcoming recidivism can lead to relational healing, independence and restored potential. The bleak alternative comes at a steep cost to families, society, taxpayers, and — most devastatingly — the victims of crime.

The Second Chance Reauthorization Act of 2025 offers a path forward for people leaving prison. By removing barriers to reintegration, Congress can help safeguard communities while upholding human dignity and potential.

Protecting the public is the government’s job, and never-ending punishments don’t help leaders deliver. Instead, targeted reentry support promotes safety. The Second Chance Act, passed in 2008, has helped more than 442,000 formerly incarcerated people stay on track with reentry services like job training, housing and addiction recovery support. People without access to these resources are more likely to reoffend.

Recidivism increases law enforcement workload.........

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