Senator Jones Passes Legislation to Reduce Recidivism Among Ex-Offenders
SPRINGFIELD, IL – Today, Illinois State Senator Emil Jones III passed legislation to assist discharged convicts and prisoners with obtaining employment with the intent of them becoming self sufficient.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE FOR FURTHER INFORMATION:
May 17, 2011 Larry Luster 217-782-0907
House Bill 3360 provides that the Department of Corrections (DOC) and the Department of Employment Security (IDES) collaborate to find suitable employment opportunities for ex-offenders upon discharge. Recently IDES was found to be in noncompliance with a section of the Public Employment Office Act. This legislation is an effort to better align IDES with the act and promote self sufficiency through employment.
“A lot of prisoners recommit crimes and find themselves incarcerated because of lack or employment opportunities,” Jones said. “This legislation will give them an opportunity to benefit the community and start a new life.”
Statistics show it can cost a state in upwards of $50,000 a year to house a single inmate. With Illinois housing nearly 49,000 inmates this cost saving legislation can save the state millions of dollars in corrections cost.
“This will be a great opportunity for our state to slow the rates of recidivism,” Jones said. “By giving ex-offenders employment, it will increase consumer spending, decrease the deficit, and create stronger communities.”
Currently, IDES works with DOC on the Re-Entry Employment Service program to provide ex-offenders with job readiness assessments, referrals to supportive services, job development and also provide post hire support to employers and employees.
HB 3360 now goes before the Governor for further consideration.
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