The Problem
Thousands of Port St. Lucie residents have criminal records that make finding employment nearly impossible. When people can't find work, they're more likely to reoffend—costing taxpayers money and making our community less safe. For non-violent offenders who've served their time, a job is the difference between a fresh start and a return to prison.
60%+
Recidivism rate without employment
220+
Second chance jobs available in PSL
$131
Million in federal bonding available
Why This Matters
- Public Safety: Employed ex-offenders are significantly less likely to commit new crimes.
- Economic Growth: Every person working contributes to the tax base instead of costing taxpayer money in incarceration.
- Family Stability: When parents work, families stay together and children have better outcomes.
- Right Thing to Do: People who've paid their debt deserve a chance to rebuild their lives.
Steven's Plan
- Second Chance Employer Program: Partner with local businesses willing to hire qualified candidates with records, offering tax credits and federal bonding.
- City Hiring Initiative: Review city job requirements to eliminate unnecessary barriers for non-violent offenders.
- Pre-Release Job Fairs: Work with Florida Department of Corrections to connect inmates with PSL employers before release.
- Training Partnerships: Connect returning citizens with CareerSource Florida for job training and placement.
- Record Expungement Support: Help eligible residents navigate the process of sealing or expunging records.
- Public Awareness Campaign: Educate employers about the benefits of second chance hiring and available incentives.
Available Resources
The federal government offers powerful tools for second chance employers:
- Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC): Up to $9,600 per hire
- Federal Bonding Program: Free insurance for employers
- Ready4Work Program: State-funded job training and placement
- CareerSource Florida: Local workforce development services
The Bottom Line
Everyone benefits when more people are working. As Mayor, I'll make Port St. Lucie a leader in second chance employment—because redemption isn't just a moral value, it's smart policy that makes our city safer and stronger.