Charleston Leader

On May 21, 2024, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a bipartisan bill led by Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) to enhance federal prison oversight. The Federal Prison Oversight Act, spearheaded by Senator Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.), aims to establish new, independent oversight mechanisms for the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP). The legislation now moves to the U.S. Senate for consideration.

"Investigations into our Federal prisons have produced shocking and alarming results," said Senator Capito. "The reports of misconduct by some prison officials, the conditions of some facilities, and the stories of abuse of inmates are horrifying. This also emphasizes the need for stricter oversight of the Federal prison system. The House of Representatives’ passage of our bipartisan Federal Prison Oversight Act reinforces this urgent need for action, and I encourage the Senate to take up this bill as soon as possible."

The bill is cosponsored by Senators Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), and Tim Kaine (D-Va.).

The Federal Prison Oversight Act mandates that the Department of Justice’s Inspector General (IG) conduct comprehensive, risk-based inspections of all 122 BOP correctional facilities. These inspections will include recommendations for addressing identified issues and assigning risk scores to each facility. Higher-risk facilities will be subject to more frequent inspections. Additionally, the IG must report its findings and recommendations to Congress and the public, while the BOP is required to respond with a corrective action plan within 60 days.

Furthermore, the bill proposes establishing an independent Ombudsman responsible for investigating health, safety, welfare, and rights concerns related to incarcerated individuals and staff. The Ombudsman would also provide a secure hotline and online form for family members, friends, and representatives of incarcerated individuals to submit complaints and inquiries.