The “Jails to Jobs” initiative has expanded!

The “Jails to Jobs” initiative has expanded! Individuals released from the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision custody will be provided non-driver cards in all 43 New York State-run correctional facilities. This helps the formerly incarcerated participate in the workforce, education, housing, and healthcare systems, thereby reducing recidivism. The DMV spearheaded this pre-release ID program in cooperation with the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS). DOCCS staff at the facilities are assisting incarcerated individuals with gathering the necessary paperwork to apply for an ID and take their photo. Once the DMV processes the transaction, the ID is delivered directly to the correctional facility to be available to the individual. DOCCS also works directly with the DMV to help eligible incarcerated individuals renew their driver’s licenses. This enables them to regain their driving privileges post-release without needing to reapply at a DMV office. DMV and DOCCS have worked together to ensure that those eligible for license renewal can receive the required eye exam and renewal while still in a DOCCS facility. To learn more, see the related press release from the Governor’s office.

NSLS’ Civil Rights Project helps represent individuals on civil matters such as:

• People who need help with reintegrating into the community after facing criminal charges. We cover such topics and issues as:
• Employment discrimination
• Section 8 issues
• Certificates of relief from civil disability/certificates of good conduct
• Denial of a professional license
• Denial of employment due to prior neglect/abuse findings
• Housing
• Public benefits
• Consumer Debt
• Transgender, Non-conforming, and Non-binary people overcome the hurdle of name changes and changes to sex designations.

Suffolk residents can call (631) 232-2400. Nassau residents can call (516) 292-8100.