Prohibits correctional facilities from denying entry to certain peer support advocates based on such advocates' prior history of incarceration

• Democratic4

◆ The sponsor's argument

Why Nathalia Fernandez says this is needed

The importance of access to peer advocates for the approximately 15% of incarcerated individuals who have substance use disorders cannot be understated. In 2021, a study showed that those with an opioid use disorder who were formerly incarcerated had better health and behavioral outcomes when placed in peer advocacy programs. The same model has been applied to other fields in prisons for many years tackling issues such as HIV/AIDS education, suicide prevention, and sexual assault. Studies also show that recidivism rates decrease when people have access to treatment in prison. In 2021, New York State passed a law requiring addiction recovery services, including peer support, in jails. However, the implementation has been unequal and often inadequate; county jails create their own policies regarding employment of peer advocates which are usually very restrictive and limit the work of advocates. Some county jail policies include a prohibition of hiring formerly incarcerated people, effec- tively barring these peer advocates from doing their essential work. This bill prohibits correctional facilities from barring admission of peer advocates based solely on their previous criminal history. Having a criminal history is what makes peer advocates relatable and trustwor- thy among the people they are trying to help. It also gives them the lived experience needed to help their clients navigate life after being incarcerated, which is a critical juncture for many leaving prisons and jails.

This is the sponsor's own case for the bill, quoted from their memorandum. It is not Agora's description of what the bill does.