FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 13, 2026
CONTACT:
Liz Fairchild
[email protected]
(202) 861-1270
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Business Forward released a new issue brief, Is America Too Soft on Crime?
The brief examines trends in crime, policing, and incarceration across the U.S. It also makes the case for proven reforms, from better police training to anti-violence programs, drug rehabilitation, mental health intervention, and sentencing reforms.
“Many of our politicians’ biggest assumptions about crime are wrong, and their desire to be ‘tough’ on criminals causes them to ignore proven reforms that would make us all a lot safer,” said Jim Doyle, President of Business Forward. “That’s why we’re helping business leaders make the business-case for what works.”
Among the report’s findings:
- Crime rates remain significantly below 1990s levels and have largely returned to pre-pandemic trends.
- Most cities and counties increased police funding following 2020.
- Americans overwhelmingly support reforms like police training, diversion programs, and substance abuse treatment.
- Community investments in housing, healthcare, and violence intervention programs can reduce crime and improve long-term outcomes.
- The economic costs of incarceration extend far beyond corrections spending, affecting workforce participation, family income, and long-term economic mobility.
Business Forward works with business leaders across the country to promote practical, pro-growth policy solutions and strengthen civic engagement.
The full deck is available here.
For questions or additional information, please contact [email protected].
ABOUT BUSINESS FORWARD
Business Forward has helped more than 300,000 local business leaders make the “business case” for climate action, affordable healthcare, immigration reform, diversity and inclusion, sensible tax laws, criminal justice reform, infrastructure investment, new trade deals, and other pro-growth reforms. Our leaders brief policymakers, work with local media, publish op-eds, submit testimony, and advocate online. We also promote their recommendations through issue briefs, survey reports, training manuals, podcasts, and social media. More than 800 mayors, governors, members of Congress, and senior Administration officials have participated in our briefings, including three presidents.
Business leaders who have participated in our briefings have seen their suggestions reflected in President Biden’s “build back better” legislation, including the Inflation Reduction Act, CHIPs Act, Bipartisan Infrastructure Act, and the American Recovery Act. They have also helped shape the Affordable Care Act, the JOBS Act, the Clean Power Plan, five trade agreements, and more than a dozen presidential budgets.
Business Forward, Inc., is a trade group supported by more than 60 of America’s most respected companies. The Business Forward Foundation is an independent research and education organization that takes a business-minded look at policy issues affecting America’s economic competitiveness.