S.736 - Lieutenant Osvaldo Albarati Stopping Prison Contraband Act (119th Congress)
Summary
S.736, the Lieutenant Osvaldo Albarati Stopping Prison Contraband Act, aims to increase the penalty for providing phones to inmates in correctional facilities. It amends Section 1791(b) of title 18, United States Code, by increasing the imprisonment term for such offenses. The bill also mandates a review of the Bureau of Prisons' policies regarding inmates possessing prohibited objects and updates to improve protections for incarcerated individuals and staff.
Expected Effects
The bill will likely lead to stricter enforcement and potentially fewer instances of inmates possessing phones. This could improve safety and security within correctional facilities. The policy review may lead to changes in how the Bureau of Prisons handles contraband and inmate behavior.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced safety for correctional officers and inmates.
- Reduced ability for inmates to conduct illegal activities from within prison.
- Improved security within correctional facilities.
- Potential for updated and improved Bureau of Prisons policies.
- Could deter individuals from providing contraband to inmates.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased penalties could lead to longer sentences, increasing the prison population.
- Policy review may lead to stricter rules for inmates, potentially increasing tension within facilities.
- Potential for disproportionate impact on certain inmate populations.
- The cost of implementing and enforcing the new penalties and policies.
- May not fully address the root causes of contraband introduction into prisons.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the government's power to establish laws for the safety and security of its citizens and correctional facilities. Article I, Section 8, Clause 4 grants Congress the power to establish uniform laws regarding crimes. The Eighth Amendment, which prohibits cruel and unusual punishment, could be relevant if the penalties are deemed excessive, but the bill appears to fall within acceptable bounds.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).