For four consecutive years, a commonsense piece of legislation has worked its way through the Georgia capitol. Now, it stands at the threshold of final passage and possibly to Gov. Brian Kemp’s desk for signing.

At a pivotal time when states across the nation are searching for and investing in solutions to improve public safety, Georgia has an opportunity to lead once again.

Senate Bill 207, the Georgia Occupational Licensing Fairness Act, is consistent with the state’s model for a smart, conservative approach to criminal justice. Grounded in accountability, limited government, and increased public safety, the policies affected by this legislation continue this theme of improving the justice system by addressing an often-overlooked barrier to successful reentry for those who are leaving prison and have earned their second chance—access to meaningful employment.

Occupational licensing might not be the first issue that comes to mind in discussions about reducing recidivism, but it plays a powerful role in determining who can work, and who cannot, in industries like cosmetics, health care, insurance, and more. Reentry programming and second chance hiring practices are the backbone of Georgia’s 27% recidivism rate, which remains well below that of the nation. For individuals who have served their time and are working to rebuild their lives, stable employment is one of the strongest predictors of their success. Without it, their path becomes narrower, and their likelihood of reoffending goes up.

Conservatives understand that government should not stand in the way of an opportunity that is earned. This includes ensuring that decisions on who can obtain a license are based on fair, individualized assessments, not blanket, one-size-fits-all restrictions that can hinder potential before it has the chance to be realized. The policies of SB 207 ensure the process is fair and thoughtful, not automatic.

This legislation does not lower standards or remove oversight, and it does not guarantee anyone a license, bypass existing safeguards, or alter the role of Georgia State Board of Pardons and Paroles. It strengthens the licensing process by ensuring decision makers have the information and discretion necessary to make informed, thoughtful determinations.

Simply put, this is not a handout. It is an opportunity for individuals who have earned their right to work to find employment, contribute, and build a stable future for themselves, their families and their communities.

The implications for public safety are clear. We know that 95% of offenders will eventually be released from prison and rejoin our communities. When they earn a second chance and have access to a stable job, they are far less likely to return to a life of crime, which means fewer cases that burden our already stretched court system, better resource allocation to address criminal activity, and, most importantly, less victims for our system to protect.

At the same time, employers in Georgia are facing a real challenge of filling open positions in their organizations. Expanding access to a qualified workforce of individuals who earned their right to participate is not just good policy, it is good business. This solution would help employers meet demand, strengthen the state’s economy, and help local communities thrive.

It is these kinds of practical solutions that have defined Georgia’s leadership: balancing accountability with opportunity, protect our communities while removing burdensome barriers, and ensuring the government operates as it should—fairly and effectively.

As SB 207 reaches the final stages of consideration, it represents so much more than just a simple policy change. It reflects a continued commitment to getting it right on public safety by focusing on what works, what is just, and what strengthens our communities for the long haul.

Georgia has long served as a leader in public safety. This is the chance to do it again.