The First Step Act, that was signed into place in 2019, continues to provide second chances for former inmates. The First Step Act was a legislation promoting criminal justice reform by re-examining the cases and trials of inmates. It allowed a number of individuals early access to parole, shortening their sentences. The article provides alarming data about how many people are affected by the criminal justice system and how it affects the lives of millions.
The United States is home to the largest prison population in the world, with over 13 million Americans arrested every year and 2.4 million people in prison. Three out of 100 adults are incarcerated or on probation or parole, with 73.5 million Americans having a criminal record. After being incarcerated, many people are hindered and unable to find access to education, jobs, housing and other life functions. However, there are studies that show that with a strong network of support people do not reoffend, which reduces recidivism. Recidivism is one of the most challenging parts of life after incarceration, as it costs taxpayers and hinders the offender’s ability to live as normal a life as they can after being in prison.
The First Step Act was created to help reduce this recidivism by providing those released from prison with positive reforms of reentry and programs to help them reintegrate into society. The hardest part of becoming part of society again is the lack of resources available to support the former inmates. Without proper help and rehabilitation, they will wind up back in prison. The First Step Act hopes to help prisoners beat this and become functioning members of society again.