Congressman Danny K. Davis Applauds Reintroduction of Second Chance Reauthorization Act of 2025
Congressman Danny K. Davis Applauds Reintroduction of Second Chance Reauthorization Act of 2025
Legislation Continues a Legacy of Justice Reform and Community Investment Originating from Davis' Landmark 2008 Law
Washington, DC — Congressman Danny K. Davis (D-IL), original author of the Second Chance Act of 2008, proudly announced the reintroduction of the Second Chance Reauthorization Act of 2025, a bipartisan, bicameral effort to bolster reentry services across the nation. Introduced in the U.S. House by Rep. Davis and Rep. Carol Miller (R-WV) and in the Senate by Sens. Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) and Cory Booker (D-NJ), the legislation renews vital programs that support returning citizens with housing, career development, and behavioral health services.
"Sixteen years ago, I introduced the Second Chance Act because I believed every person deserves an opportunity to reclaim their life, reunite with their family, and rebuild their future," said Congressman Danny K. Davis. "Since then, over 442,000 individuals across America have benefited from these services, including thousands here in Chicago. Reentry is not a privilege. It is a right backed by resources, dignity, and support."
With more than 600,000 individuals returning home from prison each year, and many more transitioning from local jails, reentry has become a national priority for reducing recidivism and promoting public safety. The Second Chance Act of 2008, authored by Congressman Davis and signed into law by President George W. Bush, established the nation's first coordinated federal effort to fund reentry programs.
In Chicago and across Illinois' 7th Congressional District, Second Chance funding has supported a wide array of community organizations and justice-focused initiatives, including workforce training programs, mentoring services, transitional housing, and behavioral health treatment. These services are particularly critical for Black and Brown communities that have long borne the brunt of mass incarceration.
"This bill is about investing in people and giving communities — like those I represent in Chicagoland — the resources to reduce crime, restore families, and rewrite futures," Davis added. "This is bipartisan work at its best — and it's deeply rooted in both justice and compassion."
From 2009 to 2024, over 1,300 Second Chance grants were awarded across 49 states and territories, supporting 871 agencies nationwide. The reauthorization will strengthen evidence-based programs and expand services for individuals struggling with substance use disorder and mental health challenges.
The American Jail Association, American Parole and Probation Association, Correctional Leaders Association, Council of State Governments Justice Center, Major County Sheriffs of America, National Alliance on Mental Illness, National Association of Counties, National Association of State Alcohol and Drug Abuse Directors, National Association of State Mental Health Program Directors, National District Attorneys Association, National League of Cities, Prison Fellowship, Treatment Alternatives for Safe Communities, and U.S. Chamber of Commerce support the legislation.
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