hold on there's just too much going on in Congress lmao...
Requires annual disaster damage reports from the Bureau of Prisons.
Rep. Ted Lieu (D-CA) and Rep. Randy Weber (R-TX).
Referred to House Judiciary Committee.
The bill mandates that the Bureau of Prisons report to Congress each year on physical damage from major disasters at federal prisons and contract prisons. Reports must cover impacts on inmates and staff, including injuries, access to food and water, early release decisions, visitation rights, and cost estimates for repairs. The Bureau must also create a corrective action plan and appoint an official to oversee it. The bill also expands the National Institute of Corrections advisory board and requires a public hearing on emergency preparedness.
Introduced Jan 15, 2026
This bill is under review by a committee. The committee holds hearings, gathers testimony from experts and stakeholders, and may propose amendments. If the committee votes to advance it, the bill moves to the full chamber for debate and a vote.
If passed, the annual reports would provide public accountability for how federal prisons handle disasters like hurricanes or pandemics. The corrective action plans could lead to upgraded emergency procedures, potentially reducing risks for both inmates and staff. The field hearing required from the National Institute of Corrections could result in nationwide recommendations for prison preparedness, affecting state and local facilities too.
Supporters Say
Supporters argue the bill increases accountability and ensures basic rights are protected during disasters.
Critics Say
Critics worry about additional reporting burdens on the Bureau of Prisons without providing extra funding.
Some advocates for prison reform support the bill as a step toward better conditions. Critics, often from fiscal conservative groups, may question the cost of new reporting requirements and suggest that existing oversight is sufficient. The bill is bipartisan, which may reduce strong opposition.