FreedomWorks Applauds Kentucky Committee Passing Bill Reducing Recidivism

FreedomWorks today applauded the movement of SB 120 out of the Kentucky Senate Judiciary Committee and urged state senators to support the measure, which is sponsored by Chairman Whitney Westerfield, when it comes to the floor for a vote on Friday. Between Tuesday and Thursday, FreedomWorks drove nearly 1,000 messages to members of the committee in support of the bill.

SB 120 offers modest-but-worthy reforms to Kentucky’s justice system. For example, the bill is designed to lower recidivism by breaking down barriers to gainful employment for ex-offenders by allowing them to obtain occupational licenses. FreedomWorks expressed support for the bill in a tele-press conference with Chairman Westerfield on February 14.

“Gov. Bevin and Chairman Westerfield have shown tremendous leadership on justice reform in Kentucky,” said Jason Pye, FreedomWorks director of public policy and legislative affairs. “They are pushing reform in the commonwealth because they have seen states like Texas and Georgia successfully implement reforms that save taxpayers money, reduce recidivism and enhance public safety.

“We were happy to see SB 120 move out of committee Thursday, but the work is far from done. We urge the Kentucky Senate to pass SB 120 when it comes to the floor for a vote tomorrow, and we strongly encourage the House to follow suit and send the bill to Gov. Bevin’s desk,” Pye added.

Gov. Bevin expressed support for policies that reduce recidivism today at FreedomWorks’ justice reform discussion at CPAC.