Behind bars, real change is happening every day—but right now, Illinois law doesn't reward it. Credit for Change is a statewide campaign to pass a law restoring sentencing credit for incarcerated people who complete rehabilitative programming and demonstrate good behavior. It's a change that makes prisons safer, families stronger, and saves Illinois taxpayers close to $1 billion.
September 18, 2026
Credit for Change Community Forum
Register for our Community Forum to learn about how restoring sentencing credits and incentivizing positive change behind bars strengthens our communities.
Credit for Change Benefits…
People who live and work in prisons: Participation in treatment and programming makes prisons safer by rewarding good behavior and improving staff morale.
Crime survivors: Many survivors report finding safety and closure when the person who harmed them changes meaningfully.
People leaving prison: Programming helps people create the stable foundation they need to build safe, secure, and fulfilling lives after release.
People with serious convictions: Research and people’s lived experience show most people convicted of serious offenses can and do change, have a very low recidivism rate, and contribute positively to their communities upon release.
Illinois’s prison system: With crumbling facilities, understaffing for the current population, and an almost $3 billion deferred maintenance bill, incentivizing change will safely reduce the prison population. This reduction prioritizes staff wellness and allows the Illinois Department of Corrections to return to its core mission of “promoting positive change for those in custody.”
Illinois taxpayers: Credit for Change saves close to $1 billion for Illinois taxpayers. We all benefit when the state spends less money on prisons and more on education, housing, and healthcare.
Members and Supporters
