ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the legislative component of the criminal justice system. Social workers engage in legislative advocacy, social and political action, and support legislation intended to enhance well-being. In fact, social workers have an ethical obligation to engage in political and social action. The chapter introduces readers to an exhaustive list of crime or other types of legislation, but to illustrate legislation that has the potential to enhance social work practice in the criminal justice system. Fewer social workers are employed in state legislatures and Congress than other components of the criminal justice system. Social workers should engage in social and political action that seeks to ensure that all people have equal access to the resources, employment, services, and opportunities they require to meet their basic human needs and to develop fully.
