H.R. 7309: Reentry Resource Guide Act of 2026

The Reentry Resource Guide Act of 2026 proposes the establishment of a pilot program aimed at helping individuals who are returning to their communities after incarceration. This program will involve the allocation of grants by the Attorney General to eligible applicants for the purpose of developing, expanding, and maintaining digital community resource guides.

Pilot Program Establishment

• The program must be set up within one year of the bill's enactment.
• The grants will support the creation of comprehensive digital guides that provide essential information about statewide resources for reentry.

Contents of the Resources

These digital resource guides are expected to include:

• Names and contact information for statewide resources.
• A layout that allows sorting by regions within the state to enhance accessibility.
• A downloadable format for ease of use.
• Information relevant to various services including:
• Employment services
• Housing services
• Crisis lines
• Local shelters
• Food assistance (pantries and hot meals)
• Legal assistance
• Transportation and relocation services
• Medical, dental, and mental health services
• Various support services for different demographic groups such as veterans, youth, and seniors.

Grant Application Process

States interested in receiving grants must provide an application that includes:

• A strategy for identifying community resources.
• Details on the relevant statewide resources, including their locations and contact information.
• Information about who will create and manage the guide.
• Details on where the guide will be made accessible.
• A plan to promote awareness of these resources to those currently in prison and individuals returning to the community.

Grant Duration

The grants awarded under this bill will have a duration of three years.

Allowed Uses of Grant Funds

The funds given through these grants can be used for the following purposes:

• Project planning and engaging with the community.
• Implementation of the project.
• Operational costs, including startup costs, outreach, and translation services.
• Employee salaries for those working on the guide’s development and maintenance.
• Maintenance of the digital platform where the guide is hosted.

Reporting Requirements

• Each grantee must provide an annual report to the Attorney General outlining how the grant funds were utilized and the progress made.
• After the pilot program ends, the Attorney General will submit a report to Congress evaluating the program's implementation, outcomes, impact on recidivism rates, and overall success in aiding reentry.

Funding Authorization

A total of $8,000,000 per year is authorized for appropriation for each fiscal year from 2027 to 2030 to fund this pilot program.

Relevant Companies

None found.