Each year in Michigan over 11,000 people are released from the prison system (Michigan.gov) and over half of those released will return back into the system at some point in their lives. Some would say once a criminal a person will always be a criminal, but this is not true in most cases. Many ex-offenders are released with high hopes of finding gainful employment and starting a new life. They truly have no intentions of resorting back to criminal ways or associating with people that do. Unfortunately, it is not as easy as most ex-offenders have pictured in their minds. Most offenders when they are released are astonished at the obstacles they face trying to fit into society. Once released from prison, most prisoners realize firsthand that one of the greatest obstacles ahead of them is the lack of rehabilitation opportunities available. Some of the obstacles they face are equal housing, employment opportunities, continuing education, and mental health struggles.
Equal Housing
The majority of leasing agents have strict guidelines when it comes to leasing to ex-offenders. The guidelines may depend on the nature and severity of the offense as well as the probation or parole requirements. In 2016, HUD issued guidance on applying Fair Housing Act Standards to the use of criminal record screening. The guidance states that landlords should make determinations based on facts and evidence and consider the length of time that has passed since the crime. The guidance also states that denials should not be blanket denials based on criminal records and that background checks should not be done based on stereotypes. However, Landlords do have the right to use the Resident score that is provided by Transunion and deny any ex-offenders if they feel the housing community would be in danger.
Employment Opportunities
Most employers run criminal background checks and you may not be eligible for certain career opportunities depending on the nature of your crime or crimes that you committed. The background checks can take a look back as far as 7 years. Please note that ex-offenders that have been convicted of crimes that are sexual in nature may have lifetime sanctions. Criminal background checks or Consumer Reports as they are known under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FRCA) can report information about a person’s background. This information includes:
· Tax liens
· Civil Suits
· Collection Accounts
· Criminal Records
· All Traffic Records
· Any Sanctions that may be imposed
There are some employers that may not be able to overlook a criminal background based on the guidelines of the law upon which that business is based. Best practices, advise the potential employer of anything that you feel may be an obstacle to employment.
Continuing Education
Although ex-offenders with drug convictions are barred from Pell Grants, they may still become eligible if they have sought drug and rehabilitation counseling or programs. There are many programs for e-offenders when it comes to the trades. Some of the programs include trade services which can, depending on the program, provide paid training. If you are considering a trade reach out to a trade school in your area. You may want to inquire about costs and accreditations when deciding. Depending on the school the costs associated may be able to be covered by the state. When deciding on a career choice make sure to research if you are eligible to be hired by potential employers in that field.
Mental Health
Many returning citizens struggle with mental health when released because of the stigmas, discrimination, and isolation associated with being an ex-offender. It is not easy sometimes to express concerns to friends and family that are not familiar with your situation. Please know that you are not alone. If you ever feel as though things are too much and you are not sure where to turn, please contact The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) or TTY 1-800-487-4889. Someone is available 24 hours a day for assistance.
The Struggle
I know firsthand how real the struggle is for felons that are trying to return to society and move on from their prior convictions. Sometimes trying to move on from the conviction can be harder than the actual conviction or prison sentence. In Michigan, there are reentry services for returning offenders. For more information visit Michigan Re-entry Services. If you are outside the state of Michigan search for the Re-Entry programs available in your state. Wishing everyone the best of luck. We will need it!