To: federal, state, and local lawmakers

We call on our lawmakers to increase funding for probation and parole programs across the United States. Currently, approximately 3.7 million adults are under community supervision, yet these programs remain severely underfunded and overburdened (Kaeble, 2024). Probation and parole are essential tools for reducing recidivism, providing rehabilitative support, and helping individuals successfully reintegrate into society. Unfortunately, insufficient resources leave supervision officers with large caseloads and limit the availability of critical services such as mental health treatment, substance abuse programs, education, vocational training, and transitional housing (Wodahl et al., 2020). Without these supports, individuals face significant barriers to reintegration and are at higher risk of reoffending.

Community supervision programs are not only morally imperative but also fiscally responsible. Research shows that supervising individuals in the community is significantly less expensive than incarceration, with costs roughly ten times lower (The Public Costs of Supervision versus Detention, 2025). By investing in probation and parole programs, lawmakers can reduce incarceration rates and generate long-term savings while simultaneously improving public safety. These programs allow officers to work more closely with clients, addressing their specific needs and fostering relationships that promote accountability, stability, and rehabilitation. Evidence indicates that personalized interventions and smaller caseloads lead to reduced violations, revocations, and reincarceration rates (Wodahl et al., 2020).

Increased funding would also help address the many challenges individuals face upon reentry into society. Many formerly incarcerated individuals struggle to find safe housing, secure employment, and access healthcare or substance abuse treatment. Additional support through transitional housing programs, educational and vocational training, and employment assistance can dramatically improve these outcomes. By providing these resources, probation and parole programs empower individuals to rebuild their lives, reduce reliance on government support, and contribute positively to their communities. Communities benefit as well, experiencing lower crime rates, stronger social cohesion, and improved economic stability (Reardon, 2014).

We recognize that some may argue additional funding should instead go toward law enforcement or prisons as a deterrent to crime. However, research consistently demonstrates that rehabilitative measures reduce recidivism more effectively than punitive approaches. Even with high caseloads, properly funded probation and parole officers are better equipped to support individuals and influence positive change. Increased funding is not a cure-all, but it is a crucial step toward a more just, effective, and humane criminal justice system.

By signing this petition, we urge lawmakers to prioritize rehabilitation over punishment and to allocate the resources necessary for probation and parole programs to fulfill their mission. Well-funded community supervision programs provide individuals with a second chance, strengthen communities, and create safer, more resilient societies. Supporting these programs is both an ethical responsibility and a practical investment in the future of our country.

References:

Kaeble, D. (2024, May). Probation and Parole in the United States, 2022 | Bureau of Justice Statistics. Bjs.ojp.gov. https://bjs.ojp.gov/library/publications/probation-and-parole-united-states-2022

Reardon, C. (2014). Formerly Incarcerated Individuals and the Challenges of Reentry. Social Work Today. https://www.socialworktoday.com/archive/ND17p16.shtml

The public costs of supervision versus detention. (2025). United States Courts. https://www.uscourts.gov/data-news/judiciary-news/2025/06/05/public-costs-supervision-versus-detention

Wodahl, E. J., Mowen, T. J., & Garland, B. E. (2020). The effect of individual characteristics and supervision experiences on the perceived quality of the supervision