THE FORTUNE SOCIETY STATEMENT ON BUDGET NEGOTIATIONS

The Fortune Society released the following statement about ongoing budget negotiations in Albany. “At The Fortune Society, we urge the Senate and Governor’s office to stand firm and support existing bail reform and Raise the Age laws. Fortune calls on the Governor and state legislators to halt the rush to roll back hard-fought and long overdue criminal legal system reforms that made our system more human and more fair. These proposed rollbacks are based on a small percentage of cases and not the overwhelming facts. They are not based on evidence, and will exacerbate existing racial disparities in all aspects of the criminal legal system. They also will not make us safer. Instead of proposing solutions that exacerbate the social and racial disparities that significantly and negatively impact Black and Brown communities, we should invest in resources proven to keep communities safe and well, such as supportive housing, community-based anti-violence programs and credible messengers, job training and job creation, and robust mental health services. With over 54 years of experience helping people returning from jail and prison find their footing and ultimately thrive, the Fortune Society stands ready to partner with our elected officials on real solutions based on what we know works, and that will truly make all of us safe.”