Alabama Pardons Bureau Opens Jobs to People With Criminal Records, Citing 1 Goal of Cutting Recidivism
Updated
Updated · WSFA · May 30
Alabama Pardons Bureau Opens Jobs to People With Criminal Records, Citing 1 Goal of Cutting Recidivism
3 articles · Updated · WSFA · May 30
Alabama's Bureau of Pardons and Paroles said it has open positions that people with criminal backgrounds can now apply for through its re-entry effort.
The program starts before release, matching inmates with employers based on where they will live, their interests and work history, while also running drug screens and reassessing mental health and substance-abuse issues.
Some convictions still limit placements: officials said people convicted of check fraud would not be steered toward bank jobs, and sex offenders would be barred from work near children or sensitive facilities.
Director Cam Ward said expanding job access after incarceration is central to reducing repeat offenses, arguing employers should decide whether to hire based on a person's record rather than the government.
Alabama’s new bill could wipe clean some criminal records. Who really stands to benefit from this proposed expungement law?
With 20 states using a Medicaid waiver for inmate healthcare, why does Alabama’s re-entry plan still have this critical gap?
Halving Recidivism by 2030: Alabama’s Data-Driven Reentry and Workforce Integration Strategy
Overview
Alabama has launched the Reentry 2030 initiative to improve outcomes for people returning to their communities after incarceration. By passing key legislative reforms like Senate Bill 138, the state is removing major barriers to employment for individuals with criminal records. The goal is to cut recidivism in half by 2030, which will help create safer communities and stronger economies. Alabama’s commitment is shown through new laws and dedicated teams working together, making it a leader in evidence-based reentry solutions that benefit individuals, families, and the entire state.