WASHINGTON, D.C. — Right On Crime, a national campaign of the Texas Public Policy Foundation, joined a coalition of conservative and center-right organizations in urging Congress, the White House, the U.S. Department of Justice to fully fund the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) at the level requested in President Trump’s Fiscal Year 2027 budget proposal. The joint letter states that investing in the BOP is essential to strengthening public safety, supporting frontline correctional professionals, and ensuring the federal prison system can effectively fulfill its mission.
“The men and women serving in our federal correctional institutions are among the most dedicated public safety professionals in the country,” said Brett Tolman, Executive Director of Right On Crime and former U.S. Attorney. “Supporting the Bureau of Prisons is supporting law enforcement. Congress should provide the resources necessary to ensure these officers can safely do their jobs while preserving the rehabilitation programs that strengthen public safety and reduce future crime.”
The letter highlights how full funding by Congress will help overcome one of the most urgent issues at the BOP: longstanding staffing shortages. The lack of consistent staffing has forced non-custody personnel, including chaplains, teachers, counselors, and medical staff, to fill correctional officer posts. The coalition warns that chronic understaffing threatens institutional safety, contributes to staff burnout, and disrupts the evidence-based programming that helps reduce recidivism and prepare individuals for successful reentry.
Organizations joining the letter with Right On Crime include Unify.Us, Tzedek Association, Americans for Public Safety, Faith & Freedom Coalition, Due Process Institute, Prison Fellowship, and Conservatives for Criminal Justice Reform.
Right On Crime is a national campaign of the Texas Public Policy Foundation supporting conservative solutions for fewer victims, less crime, and safer communities. Founded in Texas in 2007 and launched nationally in 2010, Right On Crime leads the way in advancing criminal justice policies that are just, effective, and fiscally responsible. For more information, visit www.rightoncrime.com.