Get Involved
Reentry to Workforce Measure Advances to Senate Floor
Legislation that strengthens workforce participation through reentry pathways while improving public safety took an important step forward this week. HB 168 by Rep. Barbara Freiberg (R-Baton Rouge) cleared the Senate Judiciary B Committee and now heads to the Senate Floor for final passage.
From LABI’s perspective, this bill represents another meaningful step in Louisiana’s broader workforce development strategy. Over the past several years, the state has made real progress in preparing individuals for success before release and connecting them with support as they return home. HB 168 builds on that momentum by creating a structured transitional reentry program for female parolees who are already within six months of release and approved for parole.
The bill is narrowly tailored and focused on structured reentry—a concept that is increasingly recognized as essential to reducing recidivism and strengthening communities. Rather than expecting someone to leave prison one day and immediately navigate housing, employment and stability on their own the next, HB 168 creates an approach that allows women to transition into a safe return to their communities while preparing for long-term self-sufficiency.
Employment is one of the strongest predictors of successful reentry, and Louisiana job creators are increasingly stepping up to offer employment pathways for justice-involved individuals that reduce recidivism and strengthen communities.
These women will be returning to our communities regardless. HB 168 helps ensure that transition happens in a structured, accountable way that prioritizes public safety while creating a pathway to employment and independence. LABI looks forward to final passage of this important workforce and public safety measure.