Did you know that in Arkansas it is against the law to mispronounce “Arkansas,” or that in New Jersey it is illegal for a man to knit during fishing season?
In 2016, Olivet Nazarene University released an infographic of outrageous laws from all 50 states. The visual guide was quickly picked up by other media and went viral.
It’s easy to see why. How many people do police in North Dakota actually arrest for falling asleep with their shoes on? Why did Hawaii legislate that coins cannot be placed in one’s ears? And what’s the story behind Washington’s law against harassing Bigfoot and “other undiscovered subspecies”?
While these laws may seem amusing and even frivolous, there are others that can greatly affect a person’s everyday life.
UNJUST BARRIERS
Across the country, states have legislated outrageous consequences for those convicted of felonies. While justice is necessary to maintain a stable society, many people with criminal records struggle with the collateral consequences placed upon them after completing their sentences.
In Utah and Louisiana, students with a criminal record are ineligible to receive state-based financial aid from any program. As a result, students are at a disadvantage to empower themselves through education and to become productive members of society.
Colorado has over 700 legislated collateral consequences. One such legal barrier states that the license of a business enterprise for a blind vendor is to be suspended or revoked for any misdemeanor or felony conviction. Another makes barbers and cosmetologists with criminal records ineligible for their licenses. Furthermore, anyone convicted of a felony can’t serve as an assistant to a bingo caller.
If we want people with criminal records to find legitimate means to support themselves, we should make it possible for them to do so.
THE SECOND PRISON
It is sometimes logical to deny a formerly incarcerated person access to an occupation directly related to his or her crime. It’s understandable that a person who has committed fraud might not be allowed to work in an investment bank. But laws that bar former prisoners from educational and vocational opportunities because they have a criminal record are detrimental to our economy and society.
Preventing a person from furthering their education or supporting themselves in a legitimate occupation also leads to recidivism. An endless cycle of incarceration keeps our society unsafe and is also costly to taxpayers.
SECOND CHANCE MONTH
Prison Fellowship® advocates for a justice system that restores. We support laws that better reflect Christian values related to crime and incarceration, including fair policies that help returning citizens reach their potential.
That’s why Prison Fellowship is declaring April Second Chance Month®. As we prepare to celebrate Easter, we are reminded of the transformative power of redemption found in Christ. He has made it possible for each of us to have a new beginning. In the same way, we seek to help people with a criminal record thrive. See how you can join with us and take a stand for second chances here.