Trump is right to celebrate giving ex-cons a second chance

The Trump White House has declared April “Second Chance Month,” affirming the president’s commitment to making it easier for people who have served their time in prison to reintegrate into society, a critically important goal in a country with the largest prison population in the world.

“This month, we celebrate those who have exited the prison system and successfully reentered society,” reads the White House declaration. “We encourage expanded opportunities for those who have worked to overcome bad decisions earlier in life and emphasize our belief in second chances for all who are willing to work hard to turn their lives around.”

The declaration is consistent with remarks made by Trump in his State of the Union address and at the very least reflects the White House’s consistent dialogue with reform-minded groups.

Among other things, the declaration calls on prison systems to implement “evidence-based programs that will provide prisoners with the skills and preparation they need to succeed in society,” including mentorship, job training and treatment for drug addiction and mental health.

With over 2 million people incarcerated on any given day, and tens of millions more Americans living with a criminal record, it is imperative that the criminal justice system does more than just warehouse people.

It is just as important that upon serving their time, people actually have a chance at turning their lives around.

Researchers from the American Bar Association have documented nearly 50,000 “collateral consequences” facing people with criminal records, most commonly restrictions on employment. Removing unnecessary barriers to successful reintegration is key. In recent years, California has taken a number of steps in the right direction, with Prop. 47 removing the stigma and burdens of a felony punishment for petty crimes, and Prop. 57 encouraging prisoners to complete rehabilitative programming while behind bars.

Lawmakers should critically evaluate collateral consequences of incarceration and repeal them if they aren’t needed for public safety. They should also ensure prisons and jails work to improve people rather than just warehouse them.

— Los Angeles Daily News,

Digital First Media