Biden Signs Bill to Enhance Oversight of Federal Bureau of Prisons

WASHINGTON – President Joe Biden has enacted a new law aimed at bolstering oversight of the federal Bureau of Prisons, following alarming reports from The Associated Press that highlighted systemic corruption and abuse within the agency. The legislation, introduced by Sen. Jon Ossoff, D-Ga., in 2022, received bipartisan support from Reps. Kelly Armstrong, R-N.D., and Lucy McBath, D-Ga. Ossoff emphasized the urgent need for reform, calling the situation a "human rights crisis" that tarnishes America's reputation. The newly signed law establishes an independent federal prison ombudsman tasked with gathering complaints through a secure hotline and online platform. This ombudsman will investigate and report on conditions affecting the health, safety, and rights of inmates and staff to both the attorney general and Congress. Additionally, the Justice Department’s inspector general is mandated to conduct inspections and publicly report findings, compelling the Bureau of Prisons to devise corrective action plans within 60 days. Bureau of Prisons Director Colette Peters praised the legislation, asserting it enhances the inspector general's existing efforts and facilitates quicker identification of issues. She noted that the bill would lead to more frequent inspections, both announced and unannounced, to ensure accountability and transparency within the prison system. The Associated Press's ongoing investigation has revealed significant deficiencies in the Bureau of Prisons, which oversees over 158,000 inmates and operates with a budget of approximately $8 billion. Recent incidents, including violence against high-profile inmates, underscore the urgent need for reform in the federal prison system.