Senate Passes Second Chance Reauthorization Act of 2025

Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV)

On October 9, 2025, the Senate passed the Second Chance Reauthorization Act of 2025 (S. 1843), which would continue critical recidivism-reduction and reentry services nationwide. The bipartisan bill advanced as an amendment sponsored by Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) as part of the fiscal year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The NDAA passed the Senate by a vote of 77-20. The bill now moves to the House for consideration.

Over 95% of the prison population will eventually be released, with more than 400,000 individuals released each year, while an even higher number enter and exit local jails. The Second Chance Act provides resources to states, Tribal and local governments, and community organizations to ensure that the millions of people returning from prison, jail, and juvenile facilities each year continue to receive coordinated, evidence-based reentry services.

“Senate passage of the bipartisan Second Chance Reauthorization Act is a true testament to the desire to improve our criminal justice system and work toward solutions that improve public safety in our society,” shared Cam Ward, director of the Alabama Bureau of Pardons and Paroles, and chair of the CSG Justice Center Advisory Board. “We are grateful to Senator Capito for her commitment to reducing recidivism and protecting public safety.”

The Second Chance Reauthorization Act extends grant programs for an additional five years, allowing government agencies and nonprofits to provide vital services, supports, and resources for people reentering their communities after incarceration. The legislation also expands allowable uses for supportive and transitional housing services for people reentering the community from prison and jail and enhances addiction treatment services for individuals with substance use disorders. The House companion, H.R. 3552, is led by Representatives Carol Miller (R-WV) and Danny K. Davis (D-IL).