Please ask your Representatives and Senators to vote for MRRA

What is MRRA & Why Is It Important?

Our Current Role in the Minnesota Corrections Association ‘Full Circle’ Team

The following is from an Ex-con POV:

MRRA represents a transformative shift in Minnesota’s correctional philosophy, moving away from singulary punitive measures and focusing instead on rehabilitation, reintegration, and community safety. This act provides a framework for individuals to receive the critical tools and support to rebuild our lives, break cycles of recidivism, and contribute positively to their communities.

Why We of Full Circle Support MRRA Funding

1. Personal Experience with Reentry Challenges.

As formerly incarcerated individuals, we intimately understand the barriers faced when returning to society, including limited access to housing, employment, mental health services, and substance use recovery.

MRRA proposes solutions to these issues, but these solutions are only as effective as the funding provided. Without the necessary financial support, many individuals may continue to struggle with the same cycles of despair that we have faced. We know that real change is possible through structured support, and MRRA funding is the key to unlocking that potential.

2. Reduction in Recidivism. Adequate funding will enable MRRA to invest in rehabilitation programs that equip individuals with the tools they need to succeed post-incarceration. Education, vocational training, and substance abuse programs are proven to reduce recidivism. Our own experiences have shown that, when provided with these opportunities, formerly incarcerated individuals are more likely to reintegrate successfully and avoid reoffending. By investing in MRRA funding, Minnesota can save money in the long term by reducing the costs associated with repeated incarceration.

3. Community Safety and Well-being. When individuals receive the proper resources, it strengthens the fabric of our communities. Proper funding for MRRA will ensure that individuals leaving correctional facilities receive mental health care, housing assistance, and employment opportunities necessary for a stable life. As we have seen in our own journeys, when these support systems are in place, community safety improves, as individuals are less likely to resort to crime out of desperation.

4. Moral Responsibility. As a society, we have a moral obligation to provide individuals with a second chance. Many of us have faced barriers to education, employment, and housing due to our incarceration, but we have also experienced the transformative power of rehabilitation and reinvestment. The state of Minnesota must take responsibility for helping its citizens return to productive, meaningful lives. Funding MRRA will ensure that this moral obligation is met, allowing individuals to contribute to society rather than be permanently marginalized by it.

Minnesota Corrections Association FULL CIRCLE Team.

I already put up information on a previous blog post about Full Circle. The only update for FC is that we are holding a Panel Presentation on Tuesday, 10/28/25, at the MCA Annual gig.

While we get a stipend after speaking, I have enough gas money to get there, but not enough to get back if I can’t cash the check before heading back. End of month and Social Security Disability doesn’t go far. Please consider donating to help keep me active.

God’s will, not ‘mine’, be done. SELAH!

https://www.cameron-communicationz.org/checkout/donate?donatePageId=62c362941cf1dd788941a6e3