In Pennsylvania, incarcerated individuals are currently barred from applying for state education grants, even if they meet all other eligibility requirements. This restriction denies people the opportunity to learn, grow, and prepare for successful reentry solely because of their incarceration status. In 2023, the federal government restored Pell Grant access to incarcerated students. With other states following suit, including Michigan and New Jersey, it is time for our state grant system to reflect the same commitment to rehabilitation and opportunity.
 
My legislation would remove barriers to higher education that exist solely due to a student being incarcerated. It would allow incarcerated students to apply for Pennsylvania State Grants if they are within five years of their scheduled release and enrolled in an approved prison education program. All other grant eligibility requirements would remain unchanged.
 
Education is one of the most effective tools for reducing recidivism. More than 60% of individuals released from Pennsylvania Department of Corrections facilities are re-arrested or re-incarcerated within three years. However, research shows that participation in postsecondary education while incarcerated can reduce recidivism by up to 48%. For every dollar invested in prison education, states save four to five dollars in incarceration costs within the first three years of a person’s release. By removing barriers to education, we can reduce the likelihood that incarcerated individuals reoffend and put them on the path toward a brighter future.
 
I hope you will join me in co-sponsoring this legislation and supporting a smarter, more just approach to reentry and public safety.