Faith & Freedom Coalition Supported Prison Reform Legislation Approved By U.S. House Judiciary Committee

Washington, DC – Today, the U.S. House Judiciary Committee approved one of the Faith & Freedom Coalition’s top legislative priorities. The “First Step Act” would promote public safety and give people in prison access to programming to successfully re-enter society. The legislation now goes to the floor of the U.S. House.

“Faith & Freedom has been working diligently over the past three years to achieve lasting reform to our justice system, and this bill, as its name implies, is a great first step in providing ex-offenders with an opportunity to redeem themselves, find dignity and become a valued, contributing member of society,” said Executive Director Tim Head.

The First Step Act would implement a post-sentencing risk assessment system within the federal Bureau of Prisons to determine a person’s risk of reoffending. The Act also codifies that the Bureau of Prisons will utilize proven recidivism reduction programs such as drug rehabilitation, education, skills training, classes on faith, and work programs for all federal prisoners in partnership with non-profit and faith-based organizations.

“The research is conclusive, correctional education programs and vocational training work to reduce recidivism,” said Head. “We implore Congress to enact the First Step Act as soon as possible so that we can make the public safer, save taxpayer dollars, strengthen families, and change lives for the better.”