"When an inmate is able to secure a good-paying job once released, they are much less likely to reoffend," Governor Andy Beshear said.
Beshear announced that nearly 70% of inmates released from state custody have NOT returned to the prison system in the last two years. He credits the state's 'Second Chances' program, which focuses on training that makes people immediately employable at a living wage, with the drop in recidivism.
"If we want to build this new Kentucky home, one where our neighbors, schools, workplace, and houses of worship aren't just safer, but actually feel safer," Beshear said, "reducing recidivism is one path to making sure we build that home."
The state has added 14 technical education courses in prisons across the commonwealth and plans to extend the offerings to 26 by the end of the year.