Key Facts

Total Number of People in County Jails and State Prisons, 2015
Explore your state's use of local jails and state prisons.

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Presidents and Governors Should Pardon More People in Prison

The United States incarcerates far too many people, for far too long—and sometimes for crimes that are no longer even illegal.

As Joe Biden’s presidency winds to an end, thousands of people unjustly locked in federal prisons hope that he will keep his promise to free those with cannabis-related convictions and help undo some of the harm caused by the failed “War on Drugs.” “I think we should decriminalize marijuana, period,” Biden said during a Democratic primary debate p ...

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  • Erica Bryant
    Erica Bryant
January 15, 2025
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Fair Chance Housing

Lessons in Implementation

A person’s conviction history should never be a barrier to housing. Housing provides a foundation to engage in opportunities like education and employment, making it a critical piece of one’s life, especially after release from incarceration. Formerly incarcerated people point to housing as one of the most important factors in helping them stay out ...

Publication
  • Kelsie Chesnut, Celia Strumph, Faiza Chappell, Ari Kotler, John Bae
January 10, 2025
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How To Fight for Justice in Your State and Community in 2025

Despite a grim horizon with a new federal administration, there are many ways you can protect and advance justice reform at the state and local level.

Uprooting injustice in the criminal legal and immigration systems is complex, multi-generational work. It requires persistence both when the winds are favorable and when there are storm clouds ahead. Your efforts matter, and they’ll be even more important as we navigate what’s to come in 2025 and beyond.

News
  • Erica Bryant
    Erica Bryant
January 07, 2025
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