Ex-Gov. Says Ex-Convicts Shouldn’t Be Labeled As Felons
In this July 3, 2014 file photo, former Illinois Gov. George Ryan speaks at his home in Kankakee, Ill. AP Photo/M. Spencer Green
Former Illinois Gov. George Ryan is calling for legislation that would keep convicts from being labeled as felons for the remainder of their lives.
Ryan was speaking Friday before the Coalition to Reduce Recidivism's 12th annual luncheon in Waukegan. He told attendees the "felon'' tag is a deterrent to someone looking for a job.
The Republican Ryan spent more than five years behind bars on corruption charges. He said during his incarceration at a Terre Haute, Indiana federal prison he saw many young men who have to wear the felon tag "for the rest of their lives.''
Ryan noted that when released convicts have served their debt to society, and the felon tag ought to be removed by law.
Links
- Former Governor George Ryan Released From Custody
- Wife of Ex-Ill. Gov. George Ryan Dies at Age 76
- Court Won’t Hear Appeal from Ex-Illinois Gov. George Ryan
- Military Service Could Give Felons Chance for Clean Slate
- Aaron Ammons from Urbana on changing felony conviction laws
- Coalition To Reduce Recidivism Facebook Page