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A Presidential Proclamation declared that April 2023 is Second Chance Month; a time to recognize and help people with criminal records find job, housing and other necessities.

About The Proclamation

On March 31, 2023, the White House issued a Proclamation that stated April will be recognized as National Second Chance Month for a fourth consecutive year. The purpose is to help people create new beginnings and to build a “safer, more just society.”

In the Proclamation, President Biden asked various entities and all Americans to observe the month with appropriate programs, ceremonies and activities. It also noted a few key cornerstones of the Second Chance movement, including Redemption, Investment and Recidivism Prevention.

Redemption

President Biden said that he believes in redemption but understands that it is not easy to achieve for millions of Americans who have criminal records. The Proclamation specified that individuals who have convictions often have a difficult time finding jobs, housing, healthcare or education.

It also mentioned that that because of this, “three-quarters of formerly incarcerated people remain unemployed a year after their release — and joblessness is a top predictor of recidivism. We are not giving people a real second chance.” The President emphasized that many people are not actually receiving real second chances.

Investment

To help people with criminal records rejoin society, the President proposed that when a person completes their sentence, they should have the ability to work and participate in democracy. Accomplishing this will require some important investments, so the Proclamation listed several key initiatives.

First, the Administration will invest around $1 billion in job training and re-entry services. They will also develop changes to the Pell Grant program which will allow people to earn college degrees while serving their sentences. Once these individuals are released, the government will help them find employment and other essentials.

Recidivism Prevention

Many people who spend time in prison are known to have a difficult time adjusting, which can lead to them reoffending and ending up with a new conviction. To help prevent recidivism, the President explained the Administration will devote $3 billion in American Rescue Plan funds toward mental health and substance use programs. $400 million will be allocated to help prevent young people from getting into the juvenile justice system.

The Proclamation also referenced efforts to reduce the crime rate for marijuana related offenses. It explained that sending people to prison for possession has upended many lives and that certain laws have caused “Black and Brown Americans disproportionately arrested, prosecuted, and convicted; and imposed unfair barriers to housing, employment, and education.” Earlier this year, the President issued a full pardon for Federal and D.C. simple possession offenses and encouraged other elected officials to do the same.

What Employers Should Know

Every employer should be aware of the Second Chance Movement and know that there is a nationwide effort to help people with criminal records start new lives. There are numerous laws which require organizations to take certain steps, such as not asking about an applicant’s criminal history until after otherwise determining they are qualified or individually assessing criminal records found during a background check. Many other laws have been passed that empower individuals to expunge certain non-violent criminal records.

Employers must follow all laws that are in place wherever they operate. We recommend consulting with legal counsel to make sure your business is in compliance. It remains critical, however, for hiring managers to run background checks on anyone who will represent their brand. These reports help organizations make informed decisions, maintain safe workplaces and complete their due diligence process.

If your business needs employment background checks, please contact us. Our experienced team can help you customize screening packages based on your particular needs, industry requirements and best practices. We are available to assist you Monday through Friday from 5am to 6pm PT.