HB 5973 would remove significant occupational-licensing barriers, thereby making it easier for former offenders to support themselves and their families – and making it less likely ex-offenders will commit crimes in the future.
A compromise among Illinois’ legislative leaders will extend the length and scope of Illinois’ medical marijuana pilot program.
House Bill 5973 would help ex-offenders support themselves and their families by removing barriers for nonviolent ex-offenders who want to work in barbering, cosmetology, esthetics, hair braiding, nail services, roofing and funeral service.
“All of my family members growing up were barbers, cosmetologists, jobs like like that. I learned to love being around people since they were always coming through my house to get a cut. “I love to cut hair, I love being around people. And enrolling in barber school was one of the first positive things...
Imposing civil fines instead of criminal penalties for marijuana possession is a smart first step toward changing how the state deals with low-level, nonviolent crimes.
If Gov. Bruce Rauner signs SB 42, ex-offenders would gain the chance to prove their rehabilitation and earn the right to work in medical occupations.
A recent survey of Illinois voters by the U.S. Justice Action Network shows vast popular support for criminal-justice reform.
The Illinois House has voted to impose civil fines rather than criminal penalties for low-level marijuana possession.
The White House encourages raising the minimum wage as a way to reduce crime, but this proposal ignores what happens when people are priced out of legal work.
Michigan, Minnesota and now Nebraska have reformed civil asset forfeiture – it’s time Illinois followed suit.
HB 5937 prohibits the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation from barring former offenders from working in these areas unless their crimes directly relate to the occupations for which they seek licenses. A job is crucial to preventing repeat offenses: Nearly half of ex-offenders in Illinois end up back behind bars within three years, but ex-offenders who are employed a year after release can have a recidivism rate as low as 16 percent.
An effective record-sealing policy can help nonviolent offenders find employment and stay away from crime.
By investing in community-based programs that treat nonviolent offenders’ drug and mental health problems, Illinois can avoid more costly expenditures on incarceration.