Alabama’s Leaders Release Plan to Drive Down
State Recidivism Rate
MONTGOMERY – A new plan released during the state legislature’s 2025 Regular Session details tactics to slash recidivism in Alabama and create safer communities across the state.
LINK TO REPORT: https://paroles.alabama.gov/commission-on-reentry-reports/
Reentry Alabama, formally known as the Study Commission on Interagency Cooperation and Collaboration on the Rehabilitation of Formerly Incarcerated Individuals, released a report to the Alabama state legislature. The document contains a strategic plan based on months of research, presentations from subject matter experts and stakeholder meetings that will strengthen Alabama’s reentry systems to lower recidivism and increase success for Alabamians following incarceration.
“Over the past year, the Reentry Commission sought to find a better, data-based understanding of the challenges faced by those reintegrating into society after prison – especially our neighbors who have fallen through the cracks,” Commission Chairman and Alabama Bureau of Pardons & Paroles Director Cam Ward said. “Our report is a blueprint for driving down recidivism, which means safer communities, stronger families and a significantly lower burden on Alabamians.”
Pursuant to ACT 2024-404 of the Legislature, the Study Commission on Interagency Cooperation and Collaboration on the Rehabilitation of Formerly Incarcerated Individuals – also known as Reentry Alabama – was extended through 2025 to continue reviewing Alabama’s reentry needs. The Commission researched and documented potential challenges to reentry for formerly incarcerated Alabamians and recommended actionable solutions – both near and long term – to ensure success for those coming back into society.
Each stakeholder presented data concerning their area of expertise. These unique insights formed a framework for the Commission to build out a strategic plan. Additionally, partners like the Council of State Governments Justice Center helped guide the process and offered technical assistance and recommendations to further the Commission’s mission.
Through SJR80, introduced by State Senator Robert Stewart, a new Reentry Task Force will takeover for the Commission and implement the steps outlined in the Reentry Alabama Report. The Task Force will meet quarterly through 2030.
In alignment with Reentry Alabama’s mission to introduce innovative programs for reentry, the Alabama Bureau of Pardons and Paroles has been committed to developing initiatives that promote rehabilitation and reduce recidivism. A notable success in this endeavor is the Perry County PREP Center, which has significantly contributed to preparing incarcerated individuals for reintegration into society through personal development, educational advancement, vocational training, and life skills.
ABOUT REENTRY ALABAMA
Under the chairmanship of ABPP Director Cam Ward, the Reentry Alabama Commission included Senator Will Barfoot, Senator Robert Stewart, Representative Chris England and Representative Prince Chestnut as well as representatives from the Alabama Bureau of Pardons and Paroles, Alabama Department of Labor, Alabama Community College System, Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, Alabama Department of Mental Health, Department of Human Resources, Alabama Medicaid, Alabama Department of Corrections, Alabama Veterans Affairs, Alabama Department of Youth Services and the Alabama District Attorneys Association. Additionally, several at-large members of the commission represent higher education institutions, advocacy groups and the judicial branch.
Contact:
Jakiya Dudley
Media Specialist
jakiya.dudley@paroles.alabama.gov
334.922.5497