Resolution Recognizes April 2026 as Second Chance Month

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WASHINGTON, D.C. - After serving their sentences, formerly incarcerated individuals should be stepping into a new chapter. But for many, the next chapter is defined by barriers, not opportunity. The challenges they face - from employment to housing to education - don't end when they are released and persist long after their time is served.

Seeking to shine a national spotlight on both the promise and the difficulty of reentry, the Senate passed a resolution introduced by U.S. Senators Kevin Cramer (R-ND) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) designating April 2026 as "Second Chance Month." U.S. Representatives Bruce Westerman (R-AR-04) and Danny Davis (D-IL-07) introduced a companion measure in the House.

The resolution recognizes April 2026 as "Second Chance Month" to highlight the importance of removing barriers hindering individuals with criminal records from successfully rebuilding their lives. It acknowledges the efforts of organizations and communities working to expand opportunities for reentry and calls on institutions to mark the month by promoting awareness, advancing second-chance policies, and supporting individuals as they move forward after completing their sentences.

Roughly 80 million Americans have a criminal record. In North Dakota alone, about 1,800 individuals are incarcerated and another 6,000 are under community supervision. Individuals who have been incarcerated even once are nearly seven times more likely to experience homelessness than the general population. The resolution underscores the importance of matching individuals with opportunity, and ensuring successful reentry to strengthen families, communities, and the broader economy.

"Way too often, the conversation around criminal justice ends at punishment," said Cramer. "I think, instead of dwelling on incarceration, we really ought to focus on what comes next. Our resolution simply recognizes the importance of another chance and ensuring individuals have another shot at rebuilding their lives, supporting their families, and most importantly, contributing to their communities. Those who have reconciled with society deserve an opportunity to succeed, and Second Chance Month really reinforces that commitment."

"As a former prosecutor, I have seen firsthand the challenges facing those who have been formerly incarcerated," said Klobuchar. "People are capable of change and many deserve a second chance. This bipartisan resolution to recognize 'Second Chance Month' will bring awareness to these barriers and promote opportunities for those who have served their time to access stable jobs, continue their education, and become productive members of society again."

The legislation is endorsed by Prison Fellowship, American Correctional Association, Brennan Center for Justice, Conservative Political Action Conference, Due Process Institute, Families Against Mandatory Minimums, Major County Sheriffs of America, Modern Fortis, National District Attorneys Association, Niskanen Center, Right on Crime, and Unify.US.

Cramer has seen these challenges and opportunities firsthand. During visits to the North Dakota State Penitentiary, he met with participants in the Prison Fellowship Academy, which takes a restorative, faith-centered approach to preparing incarcerated individuals for life beyond prison walls. He also toured the Restoring Promises Unit, where young adults build accountability and leadership through peer mentorship, and Rough Rider Industries, which equips individuals with practical job skills aimed at easing their transition back into the workforce.