Posted: | August 12, 2014 11:42 AM |
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From: | Representative Ronald G. Waters and Rep. Mark B. Cohen |
To: | All House members |
Subject: | Documentation for Former Inmates Act |
In the near future, I will be introducing legislation designed to assist former inmates as they return to society after serving their time in prison. The legislation will promote a package of documentation every former inmate should leave prison with upon their release: 1. A certified record of the inmate’s work history as well as educational and treatment programs completed while in custody. 2. A valid driver’s license or photo identification card. 3. A copy of the inmate’s birth certificate. High rates of incarceration in the United States have a high cost, both to taxpayers and to families and communities. By supplying ex-offenders with some of the tools they will need to return to their communities in order to find employment, we are providing a cost-effective approach to reducing recidivism and reconnecting returning prisoners to their families and neighborhoods. If you have any questions regarding this legislation, please contact Tim Scott in my Harrisburg Office by calling 717-783-4090 or via email at tscott@pahouse.net. |