Rep. Hill Introduces Bipartisan Inmate Education Bill Inspired by Arkansas HBCUs

Statement

This week, Congressman French Hill (AR-02) introduced the Shift Back to Society Act, legislation to facilitate a successful transition to employment and readjustment to society for individuals incarcerated in the United States. Modeled after a successful program in Arkansas, the bill would establish a pilot program to provide grants to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) to implement educational programs for eligible offenders and help them successfully transition back into their communities.

Following introduction of the bill, Congressman Hill released the following statement:

"At a time when America has the highest prison population in the world and spends up to $34,000 a year per inmate, it is critical that we enact necessary policies to ensure our criminal justice system is cost-effective while keeping our communities safe and reducing recidivism rates of prison inmates. Central Arkansas's HBCUs are leading the way in offering educational opportunities for inmates returning to society. Inspired by the example of Arkansas Baptist College and Shorter College, I have reintroduced the Shift Back to Society Act which focuses on education as a key component to reducing prison recidivism. Education leads to better choices, jobs, and more accountability that can help break the cycle of criminal behavior in communities across the country."

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