Public health is overlooked when it comes to public safety. Coloradans who cycle through our courts and prisons experience higher rates of chronic health problems, substance use, and mental illness. Even upon release they lack access to critical services that are essential to rehabilitation. Now is the time for solutions that keep our communities safe and healthy.

It is critical that we prevent people from coming into contact with the criminal justice system in the first place. We know that early intervention of mental and behavioral health issues can help people before they get into trouble. Expanding access to mental health and substance use treatment is a compassionate, cost-effective way to reduce crime.

For those exiting our prison system, the challenges they face rejoining society are significant. Landing a job, securing housing, and getting health care are all essential to an individual's post-release success. Combined with the stigma against people with a prison record, difficulty transitioning can make people more likely to re-engage in criminal behavior. Connecting ex-offenders to resources upon release can provide stability and prevent them from ending up behind bars again.

Join us in answering the call for criminal justice reform. Sign our petition, and together, we can give every Coloradan the opportunity to lead a fair, just, and meaningful life.