Prison Education Reform: New Office and Programs to Reduce Recidivism.
This Act establishes the Office of Prison Education within the Federal Bureau of Prisons to standardize and improve educational programs for incarcerated individuals. The goal is to significantly reduce recidivism rates and increase post-release employment by offering quality academic, vocational, and technical training. This initiative aims to enhance public safety and reduce the long-term costs associated with incarceration.
Key points
Establishment of the Office of Prison Education, led by an Assistant Director, to coordinate and ensure quality educational programs across all Federal correctional facilities.
Creation of the Federal Prison Education Program (PREP Act) to foster partnerships with external providers (colleges, non-profits) offering adult literacy, high school diplomas, postsecondary education, and workforce development.
Mandate to collect and report data correlating participation in education programs with post-release outcomes, including job placement, job retention, and recidivism rates, to measure program effectiveness.
Incarcerated veterans will receive outreach and assistance regarding their eligibility for educational benefits (like the GI Bill) upon release, though certain housing stipends are restricted while incarcerated.
Expired
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