River Region Times

Washington, D.C. - This week, Rep. Barry Moore (AL-02) praised J.F. Ingram State Technical College's commitment to helping formerly incarcerated individuals reintegrate into society through education during his floor speech on Second Chance Month. April is Second Chance Month, a time dedicated to recognizing the challenges people face when adjusting to society after life behind bars.

In his remarks on the House floor, Rep. Barry Moore highlighted the importance of providing second chances to those with criminal records, stating, "Securing a steady job, housing, and reintegrating into a community can be tough when you have a criminal record. This is a challenge that more than 70 million Americans face." Moore also commended J.F. Ingram State Technical College, located in Alabama’s Second District, for offering educational opportunities to individuals seeking to rebuild their lives post-incarceration. He noted, "I am proud that Alabama’s Second District is home to J.F. Ingram State Technical College, which helps provide many of these second chances through education. J.F. Ingram State offers 20 technical training programs for incarcerated adults, including automotive repair, construction, cosmetics, and logistics."

The congressman emphasized the positive impact of correctional education, stating, "Those who participate in correctional education are 43% less likely to recidivate than those who do not." Moore also urged for support and compassion towards individuals striving to make positive contributions to society after facing setbacks, expressing, "May we all be reminded of God’s compassion toward us as we consider that supporting those who are committed to rectifying their mistakes, getting back on track, and making meaningful contributions to society can reduce recidivism and make our communities better."

Rep. Moore's full remarks on the importance of second chances and the role of institutions like J.F. Ingram State Technical College in facilitating reintegration can be accessed for further insight.