By The Justice Policy Institute

As Virginia faces a critical labor shortage and rising incarceration costs, the state also sits on an untapped resource: thousands of incarcerated individuals eligible for federal Pell Grants who are eager to learn, work, and contribute to their communities. Unlocking Virginia’s Workforce makes the economic and moral case for expanding access to higher education in Virginia’s prisons and offers a comprehensive policy blueprint for reform.

This report outlines the high cost inaction, presenting data-driven arguments for how postsecondary education reduces recidivism, strengthens families, and helps meet the state’s urgent workforce needs. It highlights policy gaps and systemic barriers – from outdated technology infrastructure to racial, gender, and geographic inequities – and offers concrete recommendations for Virginia’s elected officials, education institutions, employers, and corrections leaders.

Drawing on lessons from across the country and the lived experience of incarcerated learners, Unlocking Virginia’s Workforce shows how aligning prison education with the state’s economic priorities can reduce public spending, grow the talent pipeline, and build a more inclusive Commonwealth.

Washington, DC: Justice Policy Institute, 2025. 59p.