Virginia Delegate Amanda Batten recently emphasized the significance of graduation from a regional jail recovery program, describing it as a reflection of meaningful rehabilitation supported by peers and staff. She highlighted the importance of second chances in a statement made on Facebook.
“I am always moved as we celebrate the We Are In This Together (WAITT) program graduates at the Virginia Peninsula Regional Jail,” said Batten, according to Facebook. “These men and women—with the help of each other and support staff—are committed to positive change and a path toward recovery. Congratulations!”
In 2024–2025, Virginia has prioritized jail-based rehabilitation and reentry programs. The Virginia Peninsula Regional Jail’s WAITT initiative has been highlighted by the Department of Criminal Justice Services for its 12-week courses focused on behavioral change and workforce readiness. State grants have expanded substance use treatment and transitional support services to reduce recidivism and strengthen community reintegration, according to the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services.
Virginia maintains one of the nation’s lowest recidivism rates at 17.6% for the FY2020 cohort. Program participants who earned GEDs or completed career-technical training reportedly show higher employment and wages post-release. These outcomes underscore the link between education, job readiness, and reduced re-incarceration among participants in programs similar to WAITT, according to the Virginia Department of Corrections.
Since 2023, Virginia’s Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services has implemented 14 minimum mental-health care standards for jails. These standards expand access to substance use disorder treatment, counseling, and medication-assisted therapy. The reforms aim to improve recovery outcomes and continuity of care after release, thereby strengthening reentry supports statewide, according to the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services.
Batten, a Republican representing Virginia’s 71st House District (Williamsburg, James City, and New Kent), has served since 2020. She sits on the Education, Public Safety, and Courts of Justice committees and has supported community well-being and criminal justice initiatives, according to the Virginia General Assembly.