DES MOINES, Iowa - A committee formed by Governor Kim Reynolds has released recommendations for reducing the rate of former inmates who end up back in prison.
The panel also looked into ways to curb bias in the state's criminal justice system.
It's recommendations included barring state and local governments from asking about criminal history when former inmates first apply for jobs. Iowa currently has a Fair Chance hiring policy, but it's not specified in law. The committee wants legislation adopting Fair Chance hiring policies for public employers in the state.
The committee also proposed to streamline the return of voting rights to offenders who've been released, a policy that's is being implemented Thursday. Felons who now finish all sentencing requirements or complete their parole will be given a nearly completed application to restore their voting rights.
They will only have to answer the last two questions on the form with the help of an officer. The other questions on the form will be answered through an automation process. Iowa is currently one of only two states with a blanket prohibition on ex-felons voting without having their rights restored by the governor. The new system still requires approval from the governor's office, but will at least provide more information in the applications process.
The group further recommends expanding workforce reentry services in prisons. About 6,500 people are released from Iowa prisons every year, but the state can only provide reentry assistance to 2,500 that are still incarcerated. The committee noted that workforce reentry services can help those about to leave prison reconnect with a prior employer, develop their resume and improve communications skills to get a job.
Governor Reynolds will now consider implementing the 17 recommendations from the committee known as FOCUS (Fueling Ongoing Collaboration and Uncovering Solutions). The committee was originally formed in October with ieutenant Governor Adam Gregg as its chair, along with thirteen other members.