ABC sent a letter to the U.S. Senate in support of the FIRST STEP Act, which was introduced by Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa). This bipartisan bill addresses the important issue of prison reform with the goal of lowering recidivism rates by helping incarcerated individuals prepare to reenter their communities.  

The bill would offer skills education to these individuals, encouraging them to secure in-demand, highly rewarding jobs in the construction industry. ABC chapters and members across the country are working to give Americans second chances and help resolve the dire need for more skilled workers in the industry. The FIRST STEP Act is awaiting movement in the Senate. ABC hopes it will be signed into law before the 116th Congress convenes in January 2019.