What’s New
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Federal Census policy breaks Vermont’s democracy — state lawmakers can fix it
Vermont’s redistricting data was once again skewed after the 2020 Census; the state needs to take action to fix the issue for 2030
September 24: Prisoners of the Census Blog
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In 2025, every U.S. state outranks most democratic countries in women’s incarceration, new report shows
The number of imprisoned women globally has grown 60% since 2000. The United States remains a major driver of this population, a new report shows.
September 23: Press releases
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Incarceration on Rikers Island in the Aftermath of the New York State Corrections Officers Strike
by Data Collaborative for Justice
August 28: Research Library: General
Featured report
States of Women's Incarceration: The Global Context 2025
The United States incarcerates women at a rate of 112 per 100,000 residents. That’s a lot, but it’s only half the story.
This report and infographic compare the women’s incarceration rate in every state with other countries. It shows that even so-called “progressive” states incarcerate women at higher rates than nearly every other country on the planet.
Mass incarceration, state by state
Learn about the national prison crisis and how we can begin to turn the tide on mass incarceration. Then, drill down to your state. Be sure to also check out our pages focused on D.C., and the incarceration of Native people.
If our work is new to you, you might want to check out our 2023-2024 annual report.
Recommended Reading:
The unmet health needs of people in prison
States fall far short of their duty to meet the health needs of incarcerated people.
All profit, no risk
The bail industry exploits cracks and loopholes in the legal system to avoid accountability, while growing its profits.
Compare your state's use of the prison to the world at large
Criminal justice policy in every region of the United States is out of step with the rest of the world.
Prison Gerrymandering Project
We are leading the movement to protect our democracy from the Census Bureau's prison miscount.
Events
- October 8, 2025:
Prison Policy Initiative, MacArthur Justice Center, and Latino Justice will host a webinar to discuss ways to reshape parole practices to center fairness, dignity, and second chances. The webinar will be on October 8th at 3 p.m. Eastern. Register here
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Invite us to your city, college or organization.