Reentry in New York
In New York State, more than 11,000 individuals are released from custody annually with a mere $40 in “gate money.”
The Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) agency regulations state that “no less than $40 may be provided to individuals upon release”. However, this $40 is not a true allowance, instead, it is derived from an individual’s funds, held in their Inmate Fund Account. Money in these accounts mostly derives from friends or family, and to a lesser degree, prison wages. (Prison wages in New York range from 10 to 62 cents per hour).
The Gate Money Program Bill [A.09115] is new legislation to provide meaningful financial support through the Gate Money Fund. This bill would address current reentry challenges in two ways:
1) It will require that NYS make a strategic investment in returning people at the most critical time, and
2) It will require NYS to codify gate money and produce annual reports - increasing transparency.
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Gate money refers to the amount of money that individuals leaving incarceration area issued upon release. Each state has the authority to determine whether they will issue gate money, as well as the manner and amount of gate money that is issued. Some states do not issue gate money at all. Individuals leaving New York prisons are allowed $40 in gate money.
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The Gate Money Program Bill (A.09115), will provide meaningful financial support through the creation of a Gate Money Fund. Eligible persons would receive stipends of $425 each month for up to six (6) months, as individuals remain compliant with conditions of their release. The total amount will not exceed $2,550. This amount will be adjusted annually for inflation.
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We cannot afford NOT to better support people returning from incarceration. The cost of recidivism to communities and taxpayers far outweighs the cost of providing meaningful support.
Endorse the Gate Money Program Bill
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Use this form to sign on to support the Gate Money Program Bill (A.9115).
Read the bill text here: NY Assembly Website
For questions, contact Alyssa Bradley at abradley@ceoworks.org
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