Federal Prison Oversight Act is Signed into Law: A New Era of Accountability and Safety

Washington, D.C. — The Nolan Center for Justice is pleased to announce that the Federal Prison Oversight Act has become Public Law No. 118-71. The Bipartisan bill signed into law Thursday and championed by Representative Kelly Armstrong (R-ND) and Senator Mike Braun (R-IN) promises to usher in a new era of accountability and safety within the federal prison system.  

This bill was born from numerous investigations revealing a dire lack of accountability and oversight for federal prisons. These investigations exposed systematic failures that jeopardize the health and safety of both incarcerated individuals and staff, ultimately undermining the integrity of the system. This new law aims to address these issues head-on, ensuring a safer, more transparent federal prison system that keeps our corrections officers safe. 

The law mandates the Inspector General of the Department of Justice to conduct regular inspections of all 122 federal prison facilities. Each facility will receive a risk score based on its conditions, with higher-risk prisons subject to more frequent inspections. The Bureau of Prisons (BOP) must respond to inspection reports within 60 days, detailing plans to rectify any identified issues. 

To further accountability, this law establishes an independent Ombudsman office within the Department of Justice. This office will handle complaints and inquiries from inmates, their families, and representatives through a secure hotline and online form. The Ombudsman will investigate issues such as sexual assaults, understaffing, escapes, and high-profile deaths. 

The passing of the Federal Prison Oversight Act represents a significant victory for conservative criminal justice reform. By instituting rigorous oversight and ensuring accountability, this law will enhance the safety and efficiency of the federal prison system. It underscores a commitment to making the BOP accountable to Congress and, more importantly, to the American people.