John,

We wanted to share with you some amazing news! Thanks to our incredible Dream.Org Empathy Network leaders, we've had some fantastic legislative wins recently! Take a look below to learn about some new state laws that will make our justice system more just.   

What Happened:

• Dream.Org Empathy Leaders campaigned for an astounding 20 pieces of legislation in 9 states around the country — many of which are still in progress. 
• Four of the bills have already been signed into law! 
• Formerly incarcerated leaders worked with the Dream Justice campaign team to make meaningful change in both red and blue states.

Click Here to Read More Here About the Wins!

Why It Matters:

• Our Empathy Network leaders are directly impacted by the criminal justice system and are motivated to make a difference.
• These legislative wins signal a massive victory for the Empathy Network and justice-impacted people across the country.

The Wins:

• Financial Fairness for Families in Mississippi (SB 2082): Thanks to Empathy Leader Cynetra Freeman, this legislation will help break the cycle of poverty for incarcerated parents in MS!
• Public Health & Safety in Kentucky (HB 353): This life-saving bill decriminalizes fentanyl testing strips to detect the presence of the drug that killed approximately 1,575 Kentucky residents in 2021 alone.
• Juvenile Sentencing Reform in Washington (HB 1324): This hard-fought bill stops juvenile records from automatically impacting and increasing someone’s sentence if they have legal issues as an adult. 
• Second Chances in Arkansas: Provides a badly needed grace period to formerly incarcerated persons, giving them time to earn money before being required to pay any court fines & fees owed.

How You Can Get Involved:

• Donate to Dream.Org: Your support helps leaders like Cynetra advocate for change across the country.
• Stay Informed: Follow Dream.Org for the latest information on criminal justice reform efforts.
• Join the Empathy Network: Become part of a passionate group of advocates working together to create change.

Together, we're making a difference in the lives of justice-impacted people nationwide. Keep up the amazing work, and let's continue to celebrate these victories!

In solidarity,
Dream.Org