1 U . S . C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E 1 6 1 5 H S t r e e t , N W , W a s h i n g t o n , D . C . 2 0 0 6 2 | u s c h a m b e r. c o m
An estimated 70 million people in the U.S. have an arrest or conviction record,
1
and over 600,000 men and women
are released from jail each year.
2
Successfully reintegrating these individuals brings many advantages. First, there are
advantages to these individuals who can get a fresh start supporting and taking care of themselves and their families.
Second, employers can benefit by tapping into a talented labor force to meet their workforce needs. And, third, society
as a whole gains when ex-offenders are connected to employment opportunities and their communities in terms of
reduced recidivism and development of human capital.
Connecting the formerly incarcerated with employment is critical, providing a secure income, stability, and a connection
with other members of society. When employers align their interests with social service work—supporting housing
agencies, health care providers, nonprofits, and the criminal justice system—the chances of successful reintegration
are even greater.
3
$78 BILLION–$87 BILLION
Loss in GDP due to excluding formerly
incarcerated job seekers from the workforce.
600,000
Men and women are released
from jail each year.
27%
Unemployment rate for
formerly incarcerated people.
65%
Reduction in employer callback rates for
Black American men with a conviction.
This issue brief explores the benefits to employers that hire formerly incarcerated individuals, identifies barriers to entry
for those with criminal convictions, highlights programs and organizations working to break down these barriers, and
discusses developments concerning state and federal legislation that supports second and fair chance hiring. Finally,
the brief makes recommendations for further action.
THE BUSINESS CASE FOR
CRIMINAL JUSTICE REFORM:
SECOND CHANCE HIRING
