The Senate passed a resolution on April 29 designating April 2026 as “Second Chance Month” to highlight the challenges faced by formerly incarcerated individuals after serving their sentences. The measure was introduced by U.S. Senators Kevin Cramer and Amy Klobuchar, with companion legislation brought forward in the House of Representatives.
The resolution aims to raise awareness about the barriers that people with criminal records encounter when seeking employment, housing, and education. It encourages organizations and communities to promote second-chance policies and support reentry efforts for those completing their sentences.
Approximately 80 million Americans have a criminal record, while in North Dakota about 1,800 individuals are incarcerated and another 6,000 are under community supervision. Individuals who have been incarcerated once are nearly seven times more likely to experience homelessness than the general population. The resolution emphasizes connecting these individuals with opportunities for successful reentry into society.
“Way too often, the conversation around criminal justice ends at punishment,” Cramer said. “I think, instead of dwelling on incarceration, we really ought to focus on what comes next. Our resolution simply recognizes the importance of another chance and ensuring individuals have another shot at rebuilding their lives, supporting their families, and most importantly, contributing to their communities. Those who have reconciled with society deserve an opportunity to succeed, and Second Chance Month really reinforces that commitment.”
Klobuchar said: “As a former prosecutor, I have seen firsthand the challenges facing those who have been formerly incarcerated,” adding: “People are capable of change and many deserve a second chance. This bipartisan resolution to recognize ‘Second Chance Month’ will bring awareness to these barriers and promote opportunities for those who have served their time to access stable jobs, continue their education, and become productive members of society again.” The legislation has received endorsements from several organizations including Prison Fellowship and the American Correctional Association.
Cramer has visited facilities such as the North Dakota State Penitentiary where he met participants in programs aimed at preparing inmates for life after prison through mentorship or job training initiatives like Rough Rider Industries.
Cramer assists North Dakotans with federal agencies to resolve issues and provide information according to his official website. He grew up in Kindred, North Dakota; earned degrees from Concordia College and University of Mary; served three terms as North Dakota’s at-large representative before joining the Senate; serves on committees including Environment and Public Works; Veterans’ Affairs; Banking Housing & Urban Affairs; is married with five children and eight grandchildren according to his official website.