DENVER – Yesterday at a press conference at the White House President Trump, flanked by leaders of both parties lauded passage of the “FIRST STEP Act” from the House and urged Senate leadership to take up the issue post-haste.

The “FIRST STEP Act” would provide additional resources for programs that have been shown to reduce recidivism amongst prison populations. These include drug and alcohol recovery programs as well as conflict resolution training.

The “FIRST STEP Act” passed the U.S. House in May overwhelmingly by a vote of 360 to 59. One of the 59 opponents: Jared Polis. As the incoming Chief Executive of the state, Polis has many stated goals for Colorado’s Department of Corrections, and his philosophy regarding recidivism could have reaching ramifications across the state.

“Polis’ opposition to The FIRST STEP Act is of particular concern now due to his new job,” said Kelly Maher executive director of Compass Colorado. “Programs designed to get people the help they need in our jails and prisons should be supported, and Coloradans should know why he opposed this at the federal level – and what that means for our system here in the state.”

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