Common, Chance the Rapper Push For Changes To Illinois Parole Laws

(Photo by Willy Sanjuan/Invision/AP, File)

Two rap stars from Chicago are pushing for changes to Illinois’ parole laws. Speaking yesterday outside the Cook County Jail, Common and Chance the Rapper urged state lawmakers to pass a bill that would amend the state’s criminal law by making people eligible for parole after they’ve served at least 20 years in prison. Illinois ended discretionary parole in 1978. Both rappers believe the criminal justice system is leaving behind thousands of people.