Today in Washington, a bipartisan group of lawmakers, including Congresswoman Carol Miller, introduced a resolution to designate April as Second Chance Month. Miller highlighted West Virginia’s commitment to providing opportunities for individuals reentering the workforce post-incarceration. “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,” she stated.
Congressman Bruce Westerman echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the need to dismantle the barriers faced by formerly incarcerated Americans. “Everyone deserves a second chance, and Congress must work to break down the stigmas attached to incarceration,” Westerman commented.
The resolution has received support from Prison Fellowship, a leading advocate for second chance initiatives. Heather Rice-Minus, CEO of the organization, noted, “Since Prison Fellowship launched Second Chance Month in 2017, we are honored to lead this growing national movement.”
Kate Trammell, senior vice president of advocacy and legal at Prison Fellowship, urged Congress to pass the resolution swiftly, asserting that it “recognizes the God-given dignity and potential of every person.”
The resolution is also endorsed by several organizations, including the Brennan Center for Justice, Right on Crime, and the National District Attorneys Association.
