Progressive Democrats in the Colorado legislature have proposed a concerning new bill that aims to incentivize crime in the Centennial State. Under this bill, criminals would receive a cash payment of $3,000 upon their release from a Colorado prison. This misguided approach is an attempt to prevent recidivism, but it raises serious questions about the priorities and judgment of the progressive Democrats behind it.

Colorado currently faces a significant challenge in addressing recidivism, with about half of the individuals released from state prisons ending up back behind bars within three years. This high recidivism rate is largely driven by drug-related offenses, as drugs are easily accessible in the state.

Just three years ago, liberal progressive Democrats in Colorado decriminalized the possession of dangerous drugs, allowing possession of less than a gram to be treated as a mere ticket offense. Experts have linked the availability of drugs, including marijuana, to a rise in homelessness, suicides, and recidivism in the state.

The proposed bill, Senate Bill 12, is championed by liberal State Senator James Coleman and three other Democrats. It seeks to allocate up to $3,000 per person upon their release for a one-year period.

Currently, the Colorado Department of Corrections provides $100 on a debit card to individuals upon their release. While the bill is inspired by a program implemented by a New York-based nonprofit, the Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO), it is important to note that this program has only been lightly tested in the U.S. in the last few years.

PRIME SPONSORS

• Sen. Julie Gonzales

• Sen. James Coleman

• Rep. Mary Young

• Rep. Javier Mabrey

Proponents of the bill argue that the CEO's program, which distributed checks of up to $2,750 to individuals returning from incarceration in six states, including Colorado, resulted in higher rates of employment, housing stability, and reduced recidivism.

However, it is crucial to consider the potential drawbacks and unintended consequences of such a program. Providing ex-convicts with significant cash payments without proper accountability measures raises concerns about how the money will be used and whether it will truly contribute to their successful reintegration into society.

If passed, Senate Bill 12 would make Colorado the first state to codify such a program into law. However, it is important to question the effectiveness and sustainability of this approach. While State Senator Coleman argues that the current $100 and a bus ticket provided to released individuals are insufficient, it is questionable whether a large cash payment is the solution. Instead of simply handing out money, the focus should be on providing resources for housing, workforce development, and job opportunities.

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If SB24-12 would also create a costly new program that provides cash payments to ex-convicts without adequate accountability measures. It would also increase the size and cost of government and the Department of Corrections by requiring the department to issue a request for proposals from nonprofit groups interested in running the pilot program.

Ultimately, this bill raises serious concerns about the priorities and judgment of the progressive Democrats pushing for its passage.