KY kids, economy would gain if lawmakers adopt alternatives to imprisoning parents
One in 10 Kentucky children have experienced the incarceration of a parent — trauma that can have lifelong consequences.(Getty Images)
Settling into the year 2025, it feels as if America is divided right down to its foundation. Finding common ground across the ever-widening gap feels next to impossible, but in Kentucky two organizations on opposite sides of the political spectrum are coming together to reexamine and improve the American criminal justice system.
The organizations we represent — KY FREE and Dream.Org — bring different perspectives to criminal justice policy. KY FREE, a voice for free-market principles, offers a center-right point-of-view to criminal justice and public safety policy coalitions. Dream.Org, on the other hand, takes a more progressive approach by raising awareness, promoting harm reduction, advocating for policies which create safe environments for those who struggle with substance use disorders, and fighting to end mass incarceration. Yet, we stand united in support of the House Bill 291 and Senate Bill 118 Family Preservation and Accountability Act, an approach that takes a compassionate, solutions-focused approach to addressing the root causes of crime, while simultaneously safeguarding family stability.
Modeled after successful programs in other states and recently adopted in Tennessee, this innovative legislation offers community-based alternatives to incarceration for parents convicted of nonviolent offenses. Instead of separating families, the act provides practical, evidence-based solutions such as:
Vocational training and educational programs to empower individuals to build stable, productive lives.
Therapy to address mental health challenges and trauma.
Case management to help individuals navigate systems and access resources.
Recovery services to support people struggling with substance use.
Parenting classes to strengthen family bonds and equip parents with the tools to succeed.
One in 10 Kentucky children have experienced the incarceration of a parent — trauma that can have lifelong consequences. By tackling the underlying issues that often lead to crime, the Family Preservation and Accountability Act ensures accountability while reducing the devastating impact of parental incarceration on children.
This legislation will also strengthen the state's economy. A recent report released by KY FREE estimates that Kentucky would not only save $74 million in direct incarcerations costs per year, but add $740 million annually to the state's economy through indirect societal and economic cost savings. By keeping parents in their communities and out of incarceration, they can continue working, supporting their families and contributing to the local workforce. Stable employment reduces recidivism and helps families achieve financial independence.
This represents a significant shift towards prioritizing safety and rehabilitation over separation. By investing in community-based supports, Kentucky can foster healthier families, stronger communities and a brighter future for its children.
We urge Kentucky lawmakers to come together in support of this critical reform. The Family Preservation and Accountability Act represents a rare opportunity to unite during a time of such political division around a shared commitment to protecting children, strengthening families and promoting public safety.
This is not a partisan issue — it's a Kentucky issue. By addressing the root causes of crime and investing in practical solutions like therapy, parenting classes and workforce development, we can create a justice system that reflects the values of accountability, compassion and rehabilitation. Together, we can build a future where families stay together, communities thrive and Kentucky's economy grows stronger.
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