This report highlights several existing successful restorative justice programs in Texasand offers recommendations based on effective restorative practices in other jurisdictions.Because crime is first and foremost an offense against the victim – victims shouldbe provided with enhanced restitution, greater input in sentencing, and a mechanism forsecuring prosecution when local prosecutors decline to act.With the state’s prisons approaching capacity with 150,000 inmates and more than half amillion Texans on parole or probation, the key to reducing long-term incarceration andsupervision costs is lowering the recidivism rate through initiatives such as victim-offender interaction programsthat emphasize accountability and penance.
Second chances make communities safer and the state’s workforce stronger
April is Second Chance Month, a nationwide effort to raise awareness of the numerous harmful collateral consequences of a criminal conviction and unlock opportunities for people impacted by the criminal justice system. This month is a reminder of the importance of removing those barriers while we continue to advance evidence-based policies that can safely lower...