DES MOINES, IOWA (October 11, 2019) — Governor Kim Reynolds will make an announcement regarding criminal-justice reform during her remarks at the NAACP’s 7th Annual Iowa Summit on Justice and Disparities in Ankeny on Tuesday, October 15. Next week’s announcement will build on her efforts over the last year to reduce criminal behavior and afford individuals a second chance.
Credentialed members of the media are invited to attend.
Tuesday October 15, 2019
7th Annual Iowa Summit on Justice & Disparities
FFA Enrichment Center
1055 SW Prairie Trail Pkwy
Ankeny, IA
12:15PM
“I truly admire the passion and vision the NAACP brings to the table as we work to find solutions to long-term problems facing our state,” said Gov Reynolds. “At this year’s Summit on Justice and Disparities, we will announce the next steps of our strategy to reform Iowa’s criminal-justice system. What we do going forward will promote safe communities, address our skilled workforce needs, and establish a legacy of forgiveness and respect for all individuals.”
In her 2019 Condition of the State Address, she announced her support for a constitutional amendment to restore felons’ right to vote after they have completed their sentences and called on the Legislature to pass legislation protecting businesses that hire Iowans with criminal records. The Legislature passed and Gov Reynolds signed that legislation (H.F 650), and her constitutional amendment passed the House with overwhelming support 95-2.
Gov Reynolds is also encouraging employers and human resources managers to attend two Employer and Reentry Breakfast Roundtable being held this year to learn about the employment opportunities available with formerly incarcerated individuals. The first one will take place at the Iowa Correctional Institution for Women in Mitchellville on November 6 at 8AM.
