HB 2055 – supported by crime survivors – would implement job credits for those on probation to incentivize employment and strengthen communities
PHOENIX – Governor Katie Hobbs last night signed into law HB 2055 – after passing the legislature with bipartisan support – which improves the probation system and supports the local economy. The bill was sponsored by Representative Selina Bliss (R-District 1), and authorizes the courts to adjust someone’s time on probation if they are employed for a set period of time. These incentives are a proven approach to improving outcomes, reducing the chances that someone will return to prison, and creating jobs. A recent report from the Alliance for Safety and Justice (ASJ) found that Arizona has over 200,000 unfilled jobs, and incentive policies like those established by HB 2055 can encourage the state’s 77,000 people on probation to further integrate into the workforce. John Bauters, the Arizona state director for ASJ, released the following statement:
“This week, Governor Hobbs and the legislature reaffirmed Arizona’s commitment to safer communities and common sense policies. HB 2055 ensures that people on probation have the tools they need to succeed, give back to their communities, and support the local economy along the way.
This bill earned the support of crime survivors from across Arizona because it’s a proven solution that helps to address the root causes of crime and reduce recidivism. Importantly, HB 2055 establishes accountability and lifts up our local businesses at a time when they need it most.
While our work continues, today is a victory for all those who seek a safer Arizona for everyone. We thank Governor Hobbs for her support, as well as Representative Bliss and Senator Kaiser for making this achievement possible.”
The full text of the bill can be read here.
About the Alliance for Safety and Justice
The Alliance for Safety and Justice is a national organization that aims to win evidence-based new safety priorities in states across the country. It also brings together diverse crime survivors to advance policies that help communities most harmed by crime and violence, as part of Crime Survivors for Safety and Justice – its national network of over 100,000 crime survivors with close to 3,000 members in Arizona. For more information, visit: https://allianceforsafetyandjustice.org or https://cssj.org.
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