SPRINGFIELD – Studies find that work release programs can play a crucial role in reducing recidivism and promoting successful reentry for formerly incarcerated individuals. However, there is a lack of rehabilitation credit opportunities for individuals in pretrial detention, leading State Senator Laura Ellman to champion a new law, Senate Bill 3333.
“There are few greater contributions to society than empowering people through education and my hope is to see more opportunities being created to reduce recidivism and improve public safety in the long run,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “While Illinois is a leading state in creating opportunities for incarcerated individuals, we still have many avenues we can improve.”
Senate Bill 3333 will allow individuals held in county jails prior to trial to receive sentence credit for completing certain programming such as work assignments, parenting programs, volunteer activities, and supervised community work. Currently, similar programming can earn credit for individuals incarcerated in Department of Corrections’ facilities, but not for those in pretrial detention due to gaps in statutory language.
The bill will also allow individuals in pretrial detention to receive up to half a day of sentence credit for each day they participate in self-improvement programming, volunteer work, or work assignments not currently eligible under existing law.
“Rehabilitation programs are one of the most effective tools we have to reduce recidivism and support successful reentry,” said Ellman. “If someone takes the initiative to improve their life by participating in programs that build skills and strengthen families that effort should be recognized no matter where they are being held.”
Senate Bill 3333 was signed into law Friday and goes into effect Jan. 1.
