In 2017 the Illinois General Assembly passed two bills that can improve employment outcomes for ex-offenders, potentially reducing crime and saving millions of dollars.

The new laws will make it easier for ex-offenders re-enter their communities.

Research shows that recidivism rates drop for ex-offenders who are able to find steady employment.

A proposed amendment to Illinois’ Criminal Identification Act would allow people to petition to have their arrest and conviction records cleared of any cannabis-related offenses that Illinois ultimately takes off the books through marijuana legalization.

Illinois governors don’t just pass on debt to their successors – they also leave behind a backlog of petitions for clemency.

Although a new study by Northwestern University researchers shows ex-offenders can make good hires, obstacles such as negligent-hiring liability hinder employers willing to give ex-offenders a chance.

Eliminating barriers to opportunity would benefit both ex-offenders and the state of Illinois.

In a July 11 resolution, Chicago City Council’s Committee on Public Safety urged the General Assembly to pass “meaningful sealing reform” to help ex-offenders re-enter the job market and their communities more successfully.

If signed, HB 6328 will remove expungement fees in Cook County for those who were arrested but never convicted.