(MNN) – The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) and the University of Minnesota (UMN) have worked to more than double the number of state counties offering incarcerated parents a second chance. MDH Mental Health Promotion Coordinator Anna Lynn says the Minnesota Model Jail Program tries to change jail practices to support children keeping family ties to incarcerated parents, such as “Parenting education, expanding visiting opportunities for families, changing intake practices, and changing the environment so it’s more child-friendly.” Lynn says parental incarceration is the second most adverse childhood experience among Minnesota youth, leading to an increased risk of illness, poor mental health, substance use and misuse, and poor academic outcomes. The program is now available in 14 counties.