2024 House Resolution 210

Whereas, Every human being is worthy of respect and dignity; and

Whereas, Redemption and rehabilitation are core to our beliefs and commitment to one another; and

Whereas, Second chances and opportunities to rebuild one’s life after an arrest or incarceration are pivotal to not only individuals, but also to strong and healthy communities in Michigan; and

Whereas, More than four million Michiganders have some type of arrest or conviction history; and

Whereas, People with conviction histories face immense barriers when returning to our communities, such as challenges to obtaining safe and stable housing, finding employment, accessing education, reuniting with family, and navigating restrictions on their mobility; and

Whereas, The barriers faced by people with conviction histories are disproportionately felt by people of color and people experiencing poverty; and

Whereas, People who are formerly incarcerated are almost ten times more likely than the general public to be unhoused; and

Whereas, Removing barriers and increasing access to stable housing and meaningful employment is linked to decreased crime and improved public safety; and

Whereas, Michigan has made great strides with historic clean slate legislation to expunge Michiganders’ records, breaking down barriers to housing, employment, and other essential needs; and

Whereas, Continued efforts must be made to ensure that all Michiganders have access to second chances and opportunities to build a healthy life for our collective communities to be whole and strong; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body declare April 2024 as Second Chance Month in the state of Michigan. We recognize the importance of second chances and removing barriers for people with conviction histories.