Sacramento, CA — In a significant victory for justice reform, Senator Josh Becker (D-Menlo Park) has successfully negotiated for a $1.8 million investment to address the unfair practice of deducting transportation and clothing costs from an incarcerated individual's release allowance, commonly known as “gate money”.
For decades, California has provided a meager $200 to individuals upon their release from the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) for post-release expenses related to transportation, clothing, and other essential expenses during their reentry. This amount has remained unchanged since 1973, despite inflation and the growing needs of this vulnerable population. Adding to this hardship, CDCR can deduct money from this allowance to cover the costs of transportation and clothing, leaving many with less than $120 to meet their basic needs in the critical first days after their release.
“This funding represents a major step toward correcting a longstanding injustice,” said Becker. “No one should face additional barriers to re-entry simply because they lack familial or community support. Ensuring that individuals receive their full release allowance is vital for a successful reentry and for the overall well-being of our communities.”
The decision to secure this funding came from direct advocacy from Senator Becker and reform groups, including the Gate Money Coalition, that highlighted the adverse impacts of these unjust deductions. This has resulted in securing $1.8 million to ensure that the full release allowance is given to individuals without any deductions, thereby providing crucial support for essential expenses during reentry.
This investment is expected to benefit approximately 10,000 individuals each year who are affected by these deductions and will provide them with a more equitable opportunity to meet their immediate needs, supporting their transition back into society and promoting successful reentry