Martinez, CA – Assemblymember Anamarie Avila Farias (D-Martinez) has introduced AB 722, a new bill aimed at creating the Reentry Housing and Workforce Development Program to assist individuals who have been released from incarceration and are facing homelessness.
The proposed legislation suggests reallocating funds from the closure of state prisons to fund initiatives that would provide long-term rental assistance, offer incentives for landlords to rent to formerly incarcerated individuals, and support housing-based employment programs. If passed, the program would be administered by the California Department of Housing and Community Development and is scheduled to begin on July 1, 2026.
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AB 722 highlights that formerly incarcerated individuals are 27 times more likely to experience homelessness compared to the general population. Research indicates that providing housing assistance can significantly reduce the chances of reoffending, with studies showing a 60% reduction in recidivism for individuals who receive housing interventions.
In 2021, a similar bill, AB 1816, was introduced by Assemblymember Isaac G. Bryan (D-Los Angeles) in an effort to address similar issues, paving the way for this new legislative effort.
Assemblymember Farias emphasized the need for supportive housing to ensure successful reintegration into society for those transitioning out of the criminal justice system.
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