Statement from Mayor Bill de Blasio on Obama Administration's Launch of Second Chance Pell Pilot Program for Incarcerated Individuals

July 31, 2015

"Time behind bars should be rehabilitative, and we must take every possible step to ensure those leaving our jails do not re-offend and have the skills they need to lead more productive lives. In New York City, we are dramatically expanding education and job training on Rikers Island, and President Obama's Second Chance Pell Pilot Program is another essential step toward rehabilitating our country's incarcerated population. Today the President made clear: the path toward a safer society starts with education."