Pell grants restored for people incarcerated

Searched but didn't see anything on this. It took effect in July but somehow I'm just noticing it now. Very happy with this change. Education plays a huge role in reducing recidivism.

"As of July 1, 2023, all provisions of the FAFSA Simplification Act related to incarcerated students are active. This means that the Pell Grant is now available to all qualified incarcerated people to further pursue post-secondary education for jobs with livable wages" (from the BOP)

More info from the Department of Education:

https://fsapartners.ed.gov/knowledge-center/library/dear-colleague-letters/2023-03-29/eligibility-confined-or-incarcerated-individuals-receive-pell-grants

 

Speaking as someone who worked in prisons (plural) for several years, I agree with Dustin's assessment and would add one other: work.

That's the list: work and education. Yes, mental health programs are needed for some. Medical treatment is needed for some. Social work (especially for incarcerated women) is needed for some. But the two things that turn criminals back into citizens are work and education, both of which are transferrable to post-prison life.

 

I think I had brought this up last year as something that was being tested in a few locations. I am happy to see it will now be available to everyone!