Formerly Incarcerated Las Vegas Man Pioneers Debt Cancellation for Fellow Ex-Offenders, Highlights Systemic Re-Entry Challenges
LAS VEGAS, NV – Frank Macias, a Las Vegas resident who recently completed an 18-year prison sentence, is spearheading an effort to cancel outstanding medical debt for individuals released from Nevada’s correctional facilities. His work,alongside advocacy groups,is shining a light on the financial hurdles facing those re-entering society and prompting questions about current Department of Corrections (NDOC) practices.
Macias’s journey from corporate tax advisor to advocate began with a single, regretful act in his early 20s. in 2007, he was charged with attempted murder, firearm possession, and robbery – charges he maintains he contests, stemming from a shooting incident involving individuals he describes as “bad people.” He admits to firing a weapon, stating he did not intend to kill and believed he missed his target. “It was a bad decision. I shouldn’t have shot the guy, period,” Macias stated. He served his sentence, acknowledging the consequences of his actions and dedicating his time to self-enhancement.
While incarcerated, Macias earned his paralegal license, maintained a rigorous fitness regime, and immersed himself in the study of Nevada law. This self-education, coupled with a commitment to positive change, caught the attention of organizations working within the prison system.
“He’s amazing,” says Amy Hocking, Executive Director of Return Strong, a nevada-based non-profit focused on supporting individuals impacted by the justice system.”He’s always very respectful and positive and wants to see change.” Hocking’s association first connected with Macias four or five years ago, and he quickly became a key liaison between the prison population and outside advocates, organizing drives and relaying concerns.
Macias’s story exemplifies the potential for rehabilitation when opportunities are provided. He received support from his family, Return strong, and the Second Chance program, a state initiative designed to reduce recidivism by connecting formerly incarcerated individuals with employment opportunities. The Second Chance program, established in 2019 under senate Bill 549, aims to provide job training, educational resources, and other support services.The Hidden Debt Burden & Systemic Barriers
However, Macias’s recent experience upon release revealed a important obstacle: considerable medical debt accrued while incarcerated. He anticipated having approximately $400 remaining in his account to aid his re-entry, but the NDOC seized the majority to cover outstanding medical bills. This practice,Hocking explains,is becoming increasingly common.”It looks like what’s happening is they’re trying to collect as much money as possible while they’re still in prison as they won’t be able to collect it when they come out,” hocking said. She believes this contradicts the intent of a recent bill (Assembly Bill 484, passed in 2023) aimed at reducing financial burdens on those leaving incarceration. AB484 sought to limit fees imposed on inmates, but advocates argue the NDOC is circumventing the spirit of the law by aggressively pursuing medical debt collection.
This practice adds to the already significant challenges faced by returning citizens. According to the Nevada Coalition for Sentencing Commission, approximately 60% of formerly incarcerated individuals in Nevada are unemployed one year after release.Housing instability, limited access to healthcare, and social stigma further complicate the re-entry process.
Macias is now leveraging his legal knowledge to assist others in navigating these complexities. He is working to identify and challenge questionable medical debt claims, advocating for fairer practices within the NDOC, and assisting individuals in accessing available resources. He hopes to build a network of legal professionals willing to provide pro bono assistance to this vulnerable population.
“There’s no reinforcing structure to help ease people back into society, to help them slowly reintegrate,” Macias said. “It’s just, ‘hey, there’s the door. This is what you owe us.'”
Macias views his past mistakes as a catalyst for positive change. “We all make mistakes,” he said. “But everything had to happen for a very specific reason… I’m here now, just by God’s good grace.” his story serves as a powerful reminder that rehabilitation is possible and that investing in prosperous re-entry benefits not only individuals but the entire community.
Contact Information:
Jessica Hill: jehill@reviewjournal.com, @jess_hillyeah (X)
Amy Hocking (return Strong): [ReturnStrongWebsite-[ReturnStrongWebsite-insert website address here]
Nevada Department of Corrections: [NDOCwebsite-[NDOCwebsite-insert website address here]
nevada Coalition for Sentencing Commission: [NCSCWebsite-[NCSCWebsite-insert website address here]
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