hold on there's just too much going on in Congress lmao...
Doubles penalties for assaulting federal prison officers.
Senators Blackburn (R-TN), Cotton (R-AR)
In Senate committee, no vote yet.
The 'Safer Prisons Act of 2026' proposes to significantly increase the punishment for individuals who assault correctional officers within the Bureau of Prisons. Sponsored by Senators Marsha Blackburn of Tennessee and Tom Cotton of Arkansas, the bill has been introduced in the Senate and sent to the Committee on the Judiciary for review.
Introduced Apr 15, 2026
This bill is currently in the Senate Judiciary Committee. Before it can become law, it must pass out of this committee, be approved by the full Senate, then pass the House of Representatives, and finally be signed by the President. There are no scheduled votes or dates yet.
If passed, anyone convicted of assaulting a federal correctional officer would face a significantly longer maximum prison sentence and higher fines. This change would directly alter the criminal penalties outlined in federal law 18 U.S. Code Section 111. The bill aims to enhance safety measures for those working in federal prisons by increasing the deterrent effect of these penalties.
Supporters Say
Supporters believe higher penalties will better protect federal prison officers.
Critics Say
The bill text does not present arguments from critics.
Proponents of the bill likely argue that doubling penalties will serve as a stronger deterrent against violence towards correctional officers, thereby improving their safety and working conditions. The bill's text, however, does not include any arguments from critics or present alternative viewpoints on the proposed changes to sentencing.