Criminal Justice Reform: Scanlon Introduces Fair Opportunities for Seniors Act

WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon introduced the Fair Opportunities for Seniors Act, a bill that would amend the Older Americans Act (OAA) by extending these benefits to eligible seniors who have been incarcerated or are under supervision following their release from prison.

The OAA, which passed in 1965, provides funding for services to support older Americans, including senior employment opportunities, caregiver support, independent senior living, protections against elder abuse, and access to health care.

“At a time when seniors make up a significant portion of our nation’s prison population, it is important that these individuals have access to the care and support they need to continue on a path of redemption and transformation once they leave the prison system,” Congresswoman Scanlon said. “This amendment to the Older Americans Act will ensure re-entering older adults are provided with access to community resources that will equip them for a successful future as productive and independent members of society.”

The Bureau of Prisons notes that nearly two-thirds of released prisoners are rearrested within five years of release. This bill aims to reduce recidivism by ensuring that older Americans reentering society are equipped with the skills and resources necessary to obtain employment, support themselves and their families, and contribute to society.

A copy of the bill text can be found here.