Atlantic County Times

Representative Van Drew (R-NJ), in collaboration with Representative Cartwright (D-PA), announced the bipartisan relaunch of the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) Reform Caucus today. They were joined by 12 other members of Congress, all committed to addressing pressing issues within our federal prison system such as understaffing, poor working conditions, and staff retention. The caucus aims to advocate for policies that will enhance the overall effectiveness of the BOP workforce.

"I am pleased to announce the launch of the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) Reform Caucus," said Rep. Van Drew. "With Federal Corrective Institute Fairton in my own district, I have seen firsthand the pressing need for comprehensive reform to our federal prison system."

Rep. Cartwright echoed these sentiments, stating: "As Ranking Member of the Appropriations subcommittee that funds the Bureau of Prisons, I am proud to champion solutions to address problems that are plaguing the BOP and our brave correctional officers."

Other members including Rep. Elise Stefanik, Rep. Carbajal, Rep. Grothman, Rep. D'Esposito, Rep. Weber, Rep. Meuser and Rep. Bacon also expressed their commitment towards improving conditions within BOP facilities.

Brandy Moore White, National President of the National Council of Prison Locals 33, supported this initiative saying: "This initiative is a crucial step toward addressing systematic issues within the federal prison system and fostering meaningful reform that will improve conditions for staff and inmates and enhance public safety."

Don Williams, President of Voices of JOE also showed his support for the caucus: "Voices of JOE strongly supports Congressman Van Drew and Congressman Cartwright in their taking leadership roles of the bi-partisan Prison Reform Caucus."

The BOP Reform Caucus represents a significant effort towards enhancing America's prison system through effective congressional oversight tackling staffing shortages, retention concerns and safety issues.