Congressman Davis Introduces Bill to Assist People With Records to Obtain Successful Health Careers

U.S. Representative Danny K. Davis today introduced the DEMO Act that will establish a Health Professional Opportunity Grant (HPOG) demonstration program (HPOG) for people with arrest or conviction records. The Health Professional Opportunity Grant Demonstration Program is an evidence-based program that opens doors to help vulnerable workers obtain successful health careers.

“Healthcare is one of the fastest growing industries and largest employers in the country,” Davis said. “Yet, there remains a shortage in allied and behavior health workers to meet the growing demand from an aging population. Individuals with arrest and conviction records represent an innovative potential workforce who could help address the health work shortage. Unfortunately, healthcare professions present several obstacles for those with arrest and conviction records.”

“The DEMO Act would invest federal dollars to adapt the HPOG model of packaging together a ‘career pathways’ approach to employment and key support services like child care, transportation, and mentoring with education, training, and job placement. This bill would reduce recidivism and boost our economy by increasing income and tax revenue. We know from local Chicago programs and Johns Hopkins Hospital that this approach works and is cost-effective. States benefit $20 for every $1 spent on community-based employment programs for individuals with records. Drawing on the success of the prior HPOG grants, the DEMO Act will play a vital role in integrating individuals with records into the workforce. This legislation will expand the successes in Illinois to the national level,” Davis said.

The DEMO Act is supported by national organizations such as the Legal Action Center, the National Employment Law Project and the National HIRE Network.