Governor Kathy Hochul signed a package of legislation that seeks to give formerly incarcerated New Yorkers the chance to seek employment and other opportunities to reenter society and reduce the risk of recidivism.
“This package of legislation takes positive steps forward to make sure New York’s criminal justice system treats everyone fairly while enhancing the safety of our neighborhoods,” Hochul said in a statement.
“It’s critical that we foster a safe state while ensuring formerly incarcerated New Yorkers have the opportunity for a second chance,” Hochul added.
The signed laws would allow re-entry workers to perform overtime or night shifts without risking violating parole.
The law also allows prisoners to travel or work during curfew which is now anymore considered a violation of parole.
Another important law Hochul signed is related to labor rights, S.2801-A/A.5705 which allows those on supervised release to protest working conditions.
The law states that those who have been discharged early from supervision for good behavior will have access to a certificate that can be shown to prospective employers and landlords.
The certificate can be shown to local boards of elections as proof that the right to vote has been restored.
These official confirmations of good conduct and that they have committed no crimes since leaving are intended to make it easier for former felons to find employment and housing.
Moreover, Hochul also signed S.294-A/A.2573-A, which allows former convicts to become the executor of a family estate.
Before the law was signed, anyone convicted of a felony would be barred from serving as an executor of a family estate, even if it was their parents or spouse.
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