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For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
June 23, 2004

Statement on the Second Chance Act 2004

This year, some 600,000 inmates will be released from prison back into society. We know from experience that if they can't find work, or a home, or help, they are much more likely to commit a crime and return to prison.

In January, the President proposed a new prisoner re-entry initiative based on expanding job training and placement services, providing transitional housing, and helping newly released prisoners get mentoring, including from faith-based groups. America is the land of second chances, and when the prison gates open, the President believes that the path ahead should be an opportunity for a better life.

Today, Representatives Rob Portman (R-OH) and Danny Davis (D-IL) introduced the Second Chance Act 2004, which includes key elements of the President's prisoner re-entry initiative. The President strongly supports their efforts, and commends the Congressmen for their leadership. We urge the House and Senate to work in a bipartisan way to get legislation passed this year that is consistent with what the President outlined.

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