Hamilton bill to boost workforce development, reduce recidivism signed into law

Yesterday, House Enrolled Act 1289, authored by State Rep. Carey Hamilton (D-Indianapolis), was signed into law by Gov. Mike Braun after being unanimously approved by both the Indiana House of Representatives and Indiana Senate.

HEA 1289 defines "employment social enterprises" in Indiana Code to match the federal definition. This would allow ESEs in the state of Indiana to better compete for federal funding for organizations that provide job training and services to help integrate those who were formerly incarcerated back into society. 

Hamilton released the following statement regarding the bill's signing into law:

"House Enrolled Act 1289 is about strengthening our economy through second chances.

"Employment social enterprises (ESEs) provide jobs, training, life skills and other supports to people getting back on their feet after experiences like incarceration or homelessness. Currently, ESEs are losing out on federal funding because Indiana lacks a code definition of ESEs. By defining them to match the federal definition, Indiana's ESEs will be better positioned to access federal funding to further their missions once HEA 1289 goes into effect on July 1, 2025.

"This bill was inspired by RecycleForce, a tremendous Indianapolis ESE working with formally incarcerated men and women to help them become productive members of our communities through job training in electronics recycling. My hope is that RecycleForce and our other great ESEs working throughout Indiana will be able to grow their operations and ultimately grow their impact on our state. Hoosiers exiting the justice system or recovering from homelessness want opportunities to rebuild their lives and contribute to our economy. HEA 1289 will give these people a second chance and reduce recidivism in the process.

"Thank you to the many House and Senate co-authors and sponsors who supported this bill and Gov. Braun for signing it into law. I greatly appreciate your partnership in getting this important piece of legislation across the finish line."