$3,000 Incentive for Released Prisoners Who Comply in Colorado – Here’s what you need to know

A proposed law in Colorado might provide major support to those exiting jail and prison. This proposed bill would give these persons up to $3,000 in state funding for living expenses.

Colorado’s Groundbreaking Initiative to Aid Ex-Offenders Faces Department of Corrections Pushback

The caveat is that they must enroll in development programs to obtain work and avoid re-entering the criminal justice system. SB24-012 could be the largest US program of its kind, supporting thousands of people over two years.

If passed, Valerie Greenhagen, regional director of the charity Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO), believes this measure would make Colorado a pioneer in supporting ex-offenders. CEO manages a smaller pilot program supported by private donations, and recipient Demetrius Somerville supports extending it. Somerville, a former collegiate basketball player who turned to drug trafficking, sees the program as a chance to escape the cycle of recidivism and rebuild his life.

The proposed law has been opposed by the Department of Corrections. The department claims the law is overly restricted, limiting participation to the CEO, a nonprofit. Adrienne Sanchez, director of policy and legislative affairs for the Department of Corrections, worried that the bill’s language could limit the department and participants’ reentry provider choices.

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Colorado Senators Propose Bold $22 Million Pilot Program to Aid Ex-Offenders

Despite these worries, bill proponents say the advantages exceed the risks. The bill would create a $22 million pilot program servicing 9,000 people until July 2026. This constitutes a huge increase in state spending compared to current support programs for ex-offenders, but backers believe it could reduce recidivism and save money.

Democratic Sens. James Coleman, Julie Gonzales, Mary Young, and Javier Mabrey sponsored the bill. They stress that supporting ex-offenders can have long-term benefits for both people and the state. Supporters hope the proposed law will pass and help ex-offenders adjust to life outside jail despite the obstacles and criticism.

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