LESNIAK-CUNNINGHAM BILL TO EXPAND EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR EX-OFFENDERS ADVANCES IN SENATE

Measure Part of Legislative Package to Reduce Recidivism, Encourage Rehabilitation

TRENTON – A bill sponsored by Senators Raymond J. Lesniak and Sandra Bolden Cunningham which would expand employment opportunities for certain ex-offenders in order to aid in their reentry into society was approved by the Senate yesterday by a vote of 36-0.

“The current law which prohibits ex-offenders from working wherever alcohol is served creates an unfair job market for ex-offenders and perpetuates a cycle of crime for people who cannot find work,” said Senator Lesniak, D-Union. “It’s time to rid ourselves of this relic of the past that puts people at a disadvantage when they’re trying to put past mistakes behind them, get a decent job and become productive members of society. This bill promotes a smarter approach to criminal justice in New Jersey, and recognizes that our best tool to prevent criminal recidivism is access to employment.”

“If a person is willing to work hard and do a good job, it shouldn’t matter whether or not they’ve got a criminal record,” said Senator Cunningham, D-Hudson. “However, under the current law, ex-offenders cannot work anywhere where liquor is served – even in a non-server capacity. Our bill would create more job opportunities for ex-offenders, so that they aren’t put in a position where a life of crime seems like the only viable option.”

Click here to read the rest of Senator Lesniak's and Senator Cunningham's news release.

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