SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Laura Murphy joined the rally to Fight for Illinois Families on Friday to speak about the importance of the SAFER Communities Act.

“This bill gives individuals reentering society the opportunity to secure a stable job so they can take care of their families,” said Murphy (D-Des Plaines). “It’s possible to decrease the rate of recidivism by providing incentives to businesses to hire formerly incarcerated individuals.”

Murphy’s measure – the SAFER Communities Act – would task the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity with creating a program that would help formerly incarcerated individuals gain reliable employment. Additionally the program would provide tax credits to employers who hire program participants, with a greater amount offered to small businesses.

Grants would be provided to help reduce barriers including, but not limited to, transportation, housing and childcare for participants, as often times they can serve as an insurmountable obstacle for many.

“The small businesses of Illinois are in need of workers, and we have the employees ready to work,” Murphy said. “It's a great partnership!”

House Bill 3418 is set to be heard in the Senate Appropriations Committee.