FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 22, 2024
Media Contact:
Joe Canino
860-294-6918
joseph.canino@cga.ct.gov
Senator Hwang Supports Increased Investment in Reentry Services for Recently Released Individuals
HARTFORD – Senator Tony Hwang joined a group of community advocates to highlight the need for investment in reentry services for incarcerated individuals leaving prison. At a press conference followed by a panel discussion on the 2024 State of Reentry Report conducted by Career Resources, a workforce development nonprofit located in Connecticut, panelists advocated for increased investment in reentry services from the State of Connecticut.
The report issued by Career Resources highlighted the significant issues facing these vulnerable populations. Notably, 93% of individuals leaving the prison system between June 1st and December 31st last year reported having a substance use problem. Of the same population, 65% of individuals did not have a high school diploma, and 37% had a moderate to severe mental health disorder.
Last session, despite the closure of Willard Correctional Institution resulting in state savings of $6.5 million, reentry services did not see a boost in funding from the state budget. These providers, currently rely solely on federal ARPA money, which is temporary, and private philanthropy.
“There is a clear need for services for recently incarcerated individuals in the areas of substance abuse, mental health, and workforce development. Good people make mistakes, and after paying their debt to society through incarceration, we have a societal responsibility to lift them up, and provide a second chance upon reentry.” Said Senator Tony Hwang. “Successful reentry and reduced recidivism must be an integral part of our plan to rehabilitate these individuals. I will continue to fight for increased funding for these essential services in this year’s budget.”
“This report shows us our work is not done. We have so much further to go. Our biggest concern is for our reentry welcome centers that are struggling. They are the first point of entry for someone coming out of incarceration. In another year, they will be gone without the support of the State of Connecticut.” stated Scott Wilderman, President/CEO of Career Resources.
“I am glad we are being brought to the table to be a part of the solution. We can explore tax breaks for those who provide housing to people with a prison number.” Remarked panelist Dr. Kenneth Jackson, Jr. As a formerly incarcerated individual himself, Dr Jackson, Jr. provided valuable insight to the panel, and how he can use his experience to help others. “Some people go to Yale, some go to jail. You can learn whatever you want to learn at either institution. I learned how to take a negative and turn it into a positive. I can use my experience to make a positive impact.”
The post Senator Hwang Supports Increased Investment in Reentry Services for Recently Released Individuals appeared first on Connecticut Senate Republicans.
