(The Center Square) – Illinois is set to have several new laws go on the books starting in 2024, with several of those affecting prisoners throughout the state.
One of the measures taking effect in 2024 is Senate Bill 423, which supports the reintegration of individuals into the community while aiming to lower the possibility of recidivism and increase public safety.
Senate Bill 2073 allows those sentenced to life in prison while under the age of 21 to become eligible for parole review.
Another going into effect has to do with the resentencing of prisoners, according to Jenny Vollen Katz of the John Howard Association.
“One is around the earned program sentencing credits and that they are going to apply retroactively,” Vollen Katz told The Center Square. “I know there is still conversation on how they will implement that law.”
The law will give prisoners time-off credits for participating in programs.
“What it does is make up for time where people were not getting those credits but participating in activities or a job that would earn them sentencing credits at different points in time,” Vollen Katz said. “So I think sort of making people whole.”
Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed SB243 back in July and explained his hopes for the law through a statement.
“It’s a system that is evidence-based and transparent, which is just what our families and neighborhoods deserve,” Pritzker said. “This bill speaks to the promise of Illinois. A promise of equity, empathy, public safety and true justice.”
Cook County will also be making changes as a new program will offer state ID cards for those who are finishing up their jail sentence in Cook County jail with the aim to help those who have recently been released with job searches, opening bank accounts, and buying a home or car.
The program is spearheaded by Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, who said it will help recently released people get a start on reentering society.
“For those who have been incarcerated, access to a home, a job, and a doctor is commonly impeded by unfair barriers,” Giannoulias said. “Each is crucial for a successful reentry back into society, and that access starts with a small but significant item that many of us take for granted, the state-issued identification card.”
Measures will go into effect in 2024.
