SPRINGFIELD – A measure sponsored by State Senator Robert Peters (D-Chicago) that would help reduce recidivism rates is one step closer to becoming law.

“Incarcerated people who are coming out of the system need to be able to live their best lives, and that requires providing proper services and support,” Peters said. “Otherwise, they may face challenges that push them to the brink and risk further destabilization, which could result in them ending up back in prison.”

House Bill 3235 would require the Department of Corrections to give an incarcerated person information about various topics, including obtaining an ID card, voter registration, job listings, available housing, and any other information the department believes could help prevent recidivism. The information would have to be provided 45 days prior to an individual’s scheduled release from the DOC system.

“We need to give formerly incarcerated people the opportunity to reintegrate into society,” Peters said.

The Senate Criminal Law Committee approved the measure with no opposition, and it will now be sent to the full Senate for further consideration.