Provide job placement and housing for returning felons

Recent signers:
Christina Henry and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

In the United States, more than 600,000 individuals are released from prisons every year, stepping back into society with hopes of rebuilding their lives. However, they are met with significant obstacles such as lack of employment opportunities and stable housing. Without these essential components, the cycle of recidivism continues to plague our communities.

The barriers faced by returning citizens are substantial. According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, two-thirds of released prisoners are rearrested within three years. Many of these cases can be attributed to the lack of resources and support systems that contribute to successful reintegration. It's time for us to break this cycle by providing comprehensive job placement programs and accessible housing options.

Providing job placement for returning felons is not only a moral imperative but also an economically sound decision. Gainful employment reduces recidivism, lessens the burden on social services, and aids in economic growth. However, finding work with a felony record is exceedingly difficult, often due to stigma and employer reluctance. We propose that employers receive tax incentives for hiring qualified applicants who are former felons, and that government programs be expanded to include job training and placement specific to this population.

Stable housing is another crucial factor for successful reintegration. Without a place to call home, maintaining employment and personal stability becomes an insurmountable challenge. We urge local and state governments to allocate funding for transitional housing programs and to partner with non-profit organizations that specialize in housing solutions for formerly incarcerated individuals.

By supporting initiatives for job placement and housing, we can change lives, reduce crime rates, and build safer communities. We call upon lawmakers, employers, and community organizations to take action now. Please sign this petition to support change and give returning felons a fair chance at rehabilitation and a new life.

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Recent signers:
Christina Henry and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

In the United States, more than 600,000 individuals are released from prisons every year, stepping back into society with hopes of rebuilding their lives. However, they are met with significant obstacles such as lack of employment opportunities and stable housing. Without these essential components, the cycle of recidivism continues to plague our communities.

The barriers faced by returning citizens are substantial. According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, two-thirds of released prisoners are rearrested within three years. Many of these cases can be attributed to the lack of resources and support systems that contribute to successful reintegration. It's time for us to break this cycle by providing comprehensive job placement programs and accessible housing options.

Providing job placement for returning felons is not only a moral imperative but also an economically sound decision. Gainful employment reduces recidivism, lessens the burden on social services, and aids in economic growth. However, finding work with a felony record is exceedingly difficult, often due to stigma and employer reluctance. We propose that employers receive tax incentives for hiring qualified applicants who are former felons, and that government programs be expanded to include job training and placement specific to this population.

Stable housing is another crucial factor for successful reintegration. Without a place to call home, maintaining employment and personal stability becomes an insurmountable challenge. We urge local and state governments to allocate funding for transitional housing programs and to partner with non-profit organizations that specialize in housing solutions for formerly incarcerated individuals.

By supporting initiatives for job placement and housing, we can change lives, reduce crime rates, and build safer communities. We call upon lawmakers, employers, and community organizations to take action now. Please sign this petition to support change and give returning felons a fair chance at rehabilitation and a new life.

The Decision Makers

Mike Kehoe
Missouri Governor
Emanuel Cleaver
U.S. House of Representatives - Missouri 5th Congressional District
Tanesha Ford
Kansas City School Board - At Large

Petition Updates