IL Gov. Pritzker Takes Action to Enhance Public Safety and Criminal Justice Reform
Governor JB Pritzker of Illinois has taken a significant step towards advancing public safety and criminal justice reform by signing Senate Bill 423 into law. The legislation, effective January 1, 2024, focuses on mandatory supervised release (MSR) reforms aimed at reintegrating individuals into communities while reducing the likelihood of recidivism and taxpayer costs.
Joined by Lt. Gov Juliana Stratton, state and local officials, and advocate Meek Mill, Governor Pritzker emphasized the bill's evidence-based and transparent approach, aligning with the promise of equity, empathy, public safety, and true justice for Illinois communities.
The key provisions of the legislation include:
Education Incentives: Improved education credits to encourage parolees and those under MSR to obtain degrees, career certificates, or vocational technical certificates.
Streamlined Early Termination: Standardized review timelines, clearer feedback, and increased recommendation for early termination for successful individuals.
Individualized Supervision: Tailored approach to address root causes of crime and enhance public safety, with reduced unnecessary drug testing to save resources.
Virtual Reporting: Permanent implementation of remote check-ins for all forms of supervision, removing barriers to success.
With over 100,000 individuals currently on probation, parole, or MSR in Illinois, and more than 25% returning to prison within three years due to non-criminal technical violations, the new provisions aim to create a transparent supervision system to lower recidivism rates, support communities, and reduce supervisor caseloads.
The legislation was drafted collaboratively by various entities, including the Illinois Department of Corrections, the Prisoner Review Board, the Administrative Office of Illinois Courts, Reform Alliance, the Illinois Sheriff's Association, and multiple community groups.
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