Second chances are an integral part of the fabric of our nation. If we want to create and sustain communities that thrive, we need a criminal-justice system that not only encourages people who have broken the law to make amends, but also ensures they have an opportunity to lead productive lives with dignity when they reenter their community. As President George W. Bush observed: “When the gates of the prison open, the path ahead should lead to a better life.”
Rarely do individuals serve a life sentence, which means we must consider reentry – including restoration of voting rights – for individuals who return to our community after having paid their debt to society. Unfortunately, many individuals with prior convictions experience difficulty with obtaining education, jobs and housing, all due to the collateral consequences and stigma of conviction. These obstacles harm not just the individual, but our entire community.
