The Political Dynamics of Justice Reform in The U.S.

Different types of disenfranchisement exist that affect the formerly incarcerated after
their release. Advocates of criminal justice reform in the United States often also push
for the reform of restrictions on federal aid and societal participation. Federal restrictions
that exist include bans on the use of welfare programs and federal financial aid for
education. Restrictions on societal participation include felons not being allowed to hold
public office, teach or work in child care, or vote. Voting restrictions are known as felony
disenfranchisement. This refers to the regulations that prevent those with a felony
conviction from voting in local, state, and federal elections on the basis of their
conviction. 6.1 million individuals were unable to vote due to felony disenfranchisement
in 2016.
Former prisoners are
incarcerated multiple
times, increasing
recidivism rates, because
they are unable to follow
strict rules and
regulations. Advocates of
parole reform perceive
these regulations as not
being focus on
community well being but
instead on controlling
parolees. A report for
Columbia University's
Justice lab showed that
in the four years since
January 1, 2018, New
York City's jail population
declined
by
21%. However, during
this time period, the
population of individuals
incarcerated due to
parole violations
increased by 15%.
The challenge of finding
employment
opportunities is another
barrier for reintegration.
Many employers deny
applicants due to criminal
records. Other reasons for difficulty finding employment is lack of available support such
as personal networks and resources from correction systems. The chance of successful
reintegration can come from the community surrounding the newly released individual.
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