Lucy McBath

Representatives McBath, Owens Introduce CREATES Act to Streamline Credentialing Process

Position: Representatives McBath and Owens introduce legislation to establish a federal grant program enabling states to build public credential repositories and registries, improving transparency in workforce credentialing and helping workers, students, and employers navigate education and career pathways.

Washington, DC — Representatives Lucy McBath (GA-06) and Burgess Owens (UT-04) are introducing H.R. 8304, the Credential Repositories and Transparency in States (CREATES) Act, which will help states build and maintain their own public credential repositories or registries to connect people with opportunities and good jobs. The bill seeks to bring clarity to a system that has become increasingly fragmented, where students, families, workers, and employers struggle to navigate and understand the hundreds of thousands of degrees, certificates, and training programs that are available in the United States. The CREATES Act builds on existing workforce development efforts, including the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), as well as prior legislation introduced by Rep. McBath such as the Youth Workforce Readiness Act, the Adult Education WORKS Act, and the TRAIN Act. Together, these efforts reflect a broader push to modernize workforce systems and ensure that individuals can make informed decisions about their education and career pathways. "It has become far too difficult, confusing, and expensive for everyday Americans to obtain the skills they need to provide a decent life for themselves and their families.," said Rep. McBath. "In today's economy, a credential should open doors, not create confusion. The CREATES Act will bring transparency and accountability to a system that hasn't kept pace with the needs of workers or employers. By investing in accessible data, we can make it easier for employers to find skilled workers, help workers identify what credentials they need to show proficiency in a given topic, and help students and families better understand what degree or credential is best for them before making major decisions about their future we can." "Too many Americans are navigating a confusing and costly credentialing system without an understanding on what actually leads to good-paying jobs. The CREATES Act brings transparency and accountability to the marketplace by helping states build tools that connect workers, students, and employers with the information they need to succeed. I'm proud to co-lead this bipartisan effort with my friend, Rep. McBath, to strengthen our workforce, expand opportunity, and ensure Americans can make informed decisions about their education and careers. We do not have time to waste," said Rep. Owens. The bill establishes a grant program allowing states to receive up to $5 million over three years to develop centralized, transparent credential data repositories through the Department of Labor. These tools would help users compare credentials across programs, regions, and outcomes. Building on a recent $15 million Department of Labor initiative supporting state talent marketplaces and credential registries, the CREATES Act would make it easier for employers to find skilled workers, help individuals understand which credentials demonstrate proficiency, and give students and families clearer guidance as they make major education and career decisions. This legislation is endorsed by Credential Engine, National Skills Coalition, America Forward, Jobs for the Future, National Association of Development Organization (NADO), Commercial Vehicle Training Association (CVTA), Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), National Youth Employment Coalition, and YouthBuild Global. Permalink: https://mcbath.house.gov/2026/4/representatives-mcbath-owens-introduce-creates-act-to-streamline-credential-process 2246 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Phone: (202) 225-4501 3330 Cumberland Boulevard SE, Suite 610 Atlanta, GA 30339 Phone: (470) 773-6330

Reps. McBath & Williams, Sens. Ossoff & Rev. Warnock Upgrading Drinking Water Infrastructure in College Park

Atlanta, GA — U.S. Representatives Lucy McBath (GA-06) and Nikema Williams (GA-05), alongside Senators Jon Ossoff and Reverend Raphael Warnock, are delivering resources to help remove lead pipes from College Park's drinking water infrastructure. The group is delivering $2,134,000 for the project through bipartisan government funding legislation that became law on January 23. This effort brought Republicans and Democrats in Congress together to help the City of College Park upgrade its drinking water infrastructure. The Federal resources will help the city replace lead pipes with ductile iron pipes, improving drinking water quality for families. "Some of College Park's most well-established residents are threatened by corroding and failing lead pipes," McBath said. "We owe it to these residents to bring overdue federal investments back to their community to ensure they don't have to worry about access to clean drinking water. I am grateful to my colleagues in the Georgia delegation for working together to deliver this funding to College Park." Congresswoman Nikema Williams said: "When Georgian families turn on their faucet, there shouldn't be a question about the safety of their water—especially not in the wealthiest country in the world. I'm proud to have brought $2,134,000 back to College Park and secured clean, safe, and dependable drinking water with my Georgia colleagues." "Clean, safe, healthy drinking water is not a luxury — it's a necessity," Sen. Ossoff said. "That's why we brought Republicans and Democrats together to upgrade water infrastructure in College Park." "In a nation as rich and powerful as ours, there is no reason any community should have to worry about the quality of their drinking water." said Senator Warnock. "I am proud to have worked alongside my Georgia colleagues to provide these critical upgrades, and peace of mind, for the College Park community." "The City is immeasurably grateful to Senator Ossoff, Senator Reverend Warnock, and Representatives Williams and McBath for their leadership and for helping secure this funding for College Park. These critical upgrades will help improve drinking water quality and keep families safe for generations to come," said College Park Mayor Bianca Motley Broom. Permalink: https://mcbath.house.gov/2026/3/sens-ossoff-rev-warnock-reps-mcbath-williams-upgrading-drinking-water-infrastructure-in-college-park 2246 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Phone: (202) 225-4501 3330 Cumberland Boulevard SE, Suite 610 Atlanta, GA 30339 Phone: (470) 773-6330

McBath, Senator Alsobrooks Introduce Legislation to Support Families and Infants

Position: Representatives McBath and Alsobrooks support expanding the WIC program by extending postpartum and breastfeeding eligibility from 6–12 months to 24 months, and oppose proposed cuts to WIC funding in the FY2026 budget.

Washington, DC – U.S. Representative Lucy McBath (GA-06) has re-introduced the Extending WIC for New Moms Act, a bicameral bill to expand eligibility and support mothers and infants into the postpartum and breastfeeding periods through the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) programs. This legislation extends WIC eligibility in the postpartum period from 6 months to 24 months and in the breastfeeding period from 12 months to 24 months. Companion legislation is led by Senator Angela Alsobrooks (MD). The bill is part of the "Momnibus," a legislative package addressing maternal health across the country. McBath and Black Maternal Health Caucus Co-Chair Lauren Underwood (IL-14) have been leading voices for the package since they came to Congress. "I had always wanted to start a family and my son, Jordan, was a blessing for me and for my family. I remember how special it was to care for my infant son, and I also remember the challenges that come with bringing a newborn into our family. The peace of mind that comes with knowing you and your child have what you need makes a world of difference," said Rep. McBath. "Without WIC, mothers, infants, and families across this country wouldn't have access to the resources, education, and support that are so needed—especially during the first few years of a child's life. By expanding eligibility for WIC programs, we are taking an important step in supporting our moms and setting this nation's children up for future success." "WIC is a critical lifeline for families that makes pregnancies healthier and safer – but currently, moms can be cut off just months after birth," said Rep. Underwood. "The Extending WIC for New Moms Act will extend access to essential nutrition and health care through the full postpartum and breastfeeding periods, giving moms and kids the strong start they deserve and improving health outcomes for the whole family." The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) is a critical federal program to provide supplemental foods, health care referrals, and nutrition education to low-income pregnant, breastfeeding, and postpartum people, as well as infants and children up to age 5 who are at nutritional risk. The Trump Administration attempted a brief funding freeze on federal assistance programs including WIC in early 2025, which was blocked by a federal court. The proposed FY2026 budget also includes cuts to WIC funding and would roll back benefits that allowed participants to receive more money for fruits and vegetables. Data on WIC's effectiveness show the benefits of the program for moms and babies: pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding WIC participants have lower likelihoods of pregnancy-related risk factors, lower risk of preterm birth, and lower risk of low-birthweight infants. Maternal WIC participation is also associated with reductions in infant mortality and improved nutrition and health outcomes for infants and children. By extending eligibility for WIC in the postpartum and breastfeeding periods, the Extending WIC for New Moms Act will make sure the nutritional needs of moms and babies are met, improving maternal and child health outcomes and advancing birth equity across the United States. The Extending WIC for New Moms Act is endorsed by nearly 180 organizations, listed here. Permalink: https://mcbath.house.gov/2026/3/mcbath-senator-alsobrooks-introduce-legislation-to-support-families-and-infants 2246 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Phone: (202) 225-4501 3330 Cumberland Boulevard SE, Suite 610 Atlanta, GA 30339 Phone: (470) 773-6330

Representatives McBath, Valadao, Carter, Lee Launch Bipartisan Caucus to Combat Human Trafficking

Washington, DC – Representative Lucy McBath (GA-06), joined by David Valadao (CA-22), Troy Carter (LA-02), and Laurel Lee (FL-15) this week launched the Combating Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus. This caucus is a bipartisan coalition of members committed to advancing legislation and policy initiatives that raise public awareness of human trafficking, strengthen the United States' prevention and prosecution efforts, hold traffickers accountable, and protect human trafficking victims. "We are proud to launch the Congressional Combating Human Trafficking Caucus, a bipartisan effort to strengthen Congress's commitment to preventing human trafficking, protecting victims, and holding traffickers accountable," said Rep. McBath. "Human trafficking is a grave violation of human rights that demands sustained action at every level of government. Through this caucus, we will work to raise public awareness, advance meaningful legislation, and coordinate closely with federal agencies, advocates, and community partners to confront this crime wherever it occurs. I thank my colleagues for their support on this issue. By bringing together members on both sides of the aisle, we are reinforcing our shared responsibility to combat trafficking and ensure that victims are protected." "Human trafficking is a devastating crime that preys on the most vulnerable in our Central Valley communities, and while there's no silver bullet solution, there are actions we can take to fight back," said Rep. Valadao. "I'm proud to launch the bipartisan Combating Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus to strengthen support for victims and survivors, improve coordination across federal, state, and local partners, and hold traffickers accountable. This caucus will engage lived-experience experts and key stakeholders to help guide future legislative action, and I look forward to working with my co-chairs to confront this crisis head on." "Human trafficking is an urgent threat in communities across our nation, and New Orleans is especially vulnerable as a hub for tourism and major events, leading to an increased rate of trafficking. I'm proud to join my colleagues in launching this bipartisan caucus to strengthen coordination at every level of government and hold traffickers accountable. I am committed to elevating survivor voices, protecting vulnerable populations, and ensuring victims have access to the support and opportunities they need to rebuild their lives," said Rep. Troy Carter, Sr. "Human trafficking is an insidious crime that exploits both children and adults and preys on the most vulnerable in our communities," said Rep. Lee. "I am proud to join the Congressional Combatting Human Trafficking Caucus and work alongside my colleagues to combat this abuse and hold traffickers accountable. Throughout my time in Congress, I have introduced and supported legislation focused on protecting victims and strengthening the tools law enforcement needs to stop traffickers. I look forward to continuing that work through this caucus and advancing policies that help protect vulnerable individuals and bring traffickers to justice." Supporting organizations include the American Hotel & Lodging Association, U.S. Chamber of Commerce, American Gaming Association, Interparliamentary Taskforce on Human Trafficking, Kids in Need of Defense, Polaris, TAT, Protect All Children from Trafficking, the Empowerment Dess Perkins Foundation, Kings County Sheriff's Department, the Central Valley Justice Coalition, Central Valley Against Human Trafficking, It's a Penalty, 3Strands Global Foundation, Without Permission, Kern Coalition Against Human Trafficking, Kings Community Action Organization, California Commission on Sexual Exploitation, Wellspring Living, and Street Grace. "The creation of the Combating Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus is a powerful signal that our leaders in Washington are committed to treating this heinous crime with the urgency it demands. The hotel industry has been a leading voice in prevention through our No Room for Trafficking initiative which trains employees and supports survivors. We've long believed that preventing human trafficking requires partnership between the business community and government, and are eager to work more closely with the caucus co-chairs – Representatives David Valadao (R-CA), Laurel Lee (R-FL), Troy Carter (D-LA), and Lucy McBath (D-GA) – and all members of Congress to advance policies that strengthen prevention and support survivors on their path to stability and recovery," said Rosanna Maietta, President and CEO, American Hotel & Lodging Association. "The U.S. Chamber and our members are committed to combating human trafficking and we commend Rep. David Valadao, Rep. Troy Carter, Rep. Laurel Lee, and Rep. Lucy McBath for launching the Combating Human Trafficking Caucus. The U.S. Chamber looks forward to working with the Combating Human Trafficking Caucus in the fight to stop this heinous crime," said Rodney Davis, Head of Government Affairs, U.S. Chamber of Commerce. "The AGA is proud to support the launch of the Combating Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus. Human trafficking is an issue that affects communities in all 50 states and requires strong collaboration across government, law enforcement, and community partners. We look forward to working closely with the Caucus and its stakeholders to advance policies and initiatives that strengthen prevention, awareness, and support for survivors," said Alex Costello, Vice President, American Gaming Association (AGA). "Human trafficking does not respect borders, and neither can the response to it. The formation of this caucus sends a clear signal that Congress is ready to match the urgency of this crisis with sustained, bipartisan commitment. Combating human trafficking requires more than good intentions, it requires coordinated legislative action. The launch of this caucus strengthens this coordination," said Anne Basham, Chair, Interparliamentary Taskforce on Human Trafficking. "KIND applauds Representatives David Valadao, Troy Carter, Laurel Lee, and Lucy McBath for launching the vital Combating Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus. The unaccompanied children that KIND serves too often face trafficking and other exploitation in their countries of origin and the United States alike. For decades, Congress has worked to address these abuses in a robust bipartisan fashion, including by helping ensure that unaccompanied children have attorneys who identify trafficking risks and guide children's cooperation as victim-witnesses in the investigation and prosecution of perpetrators. The caucus embodies this bipartisan approach to preventing and combating trafficking. KIND looks forward to engaging with its members on pragmatic solutions that keep children safe and hold bad actors to account," said Wendy Young, President, Kids in Need of Defense. "We welcome the establishment of this Caucus and are encouraged by its commitment to elevating the experiences and leadership of those most directly impacted by trafficking. Policies are strongest when they are informed by the realities people face in communities across the country, and when survivor insight and credible data guide the path forward. At Polaris, we believe effective policy must center survivors, protect their privacy and dignity, and draw on the best available data and insights from the field. We look forward to engaging with the Caucus as its agenda develops to help ensure these values remain at the forefront of legislative and policy efforts," said Megan Lundstrom, CEO, Polaris. "As a non-profit organization that partners with the transportation industry to combat human trafficking, TAT welcomes the establishment of a bipartisan Combating Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus. Since its founding in 2009, TAT has trained over 2.5 million transportation professionals on how to recognize and report human trafficking. We also train law enforcement and facilitate the creation of public-private partnerships. Recognizing that coordinated approaches are essential, TAT supports the Caucus' goals of elevating the voices of survivors and partnering with experts to advance policies to prevent human trafficking, recover and support survivors, and hold traffickers accountable," said Esther Goetsch, Executive Director, TAT. "PACT—Protect All Children from Trafficking—is thrilled to support the reconstitution of the bipartisan Combating Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus. Human trafficking in general, and the commercial sexual exploitation of children in particular, is a terrible crime that transcends national and international borders, and efforts to prevent it must transcend political divisions. PACT looks forward to working with caucus co-chairs David Valadao, Laurel Lee, Lucy McBath, and Troy Carter to advance survivor-centered legislation that strengthens federal anti-trafficking efforts, from supporting the work of federal agencies to prevent trafficking to ensuring accountability for platforms that facilitate exploitation," said Aram Schvey, Senior Director of Policy and Government Relations, PACT. "The Empowerment Dess Perkins Foundation, is honored to be a part of the Combating Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus, standing in commitment to protecting our youth, vulnerable individuals, and advancing meaningful solutions to end human trafficking. As a survivor, I believe that what happens to one of us should be the business of all of us. I speak for those who cannot, turning my pain into purpose, helping create legislation, and using my voice to advocate for prevention, protection future generations, and hope for survivors everywhere," said Dess Perkins, CEO, the Empowerment Dess Perkins Foundation. "As Sheriff of Kings County, I'm fully committed to this coordinated effort to combat human trafficking both locally and across California's Central Valley. Like many smaller communities, Kings County has been directly impacted by this crime, and I strongly support measures that increase penalties and strengthen collaborative enforcement efforts. Human trafficking is far more widespread than many realize and often goes unreported. I'm grateful to the Combating Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus for taking meaningful action to fight back," said Dave Putnam, Sheriff, Kings County. "The Central Valley Justice Coalition is deeply grateful and encouraged by the formation of the bipartisan Combating Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus. Since 2010, the Justice Coalition has been focused on preventing human trafficking through education, partnership, and outreach. We are pleased to see our elected officials giving appropriate priority to prevention and early intervention combined with systemic change and informed by survivor voice. We look forward to future conversations as together we work to bring freedom and flourishing to every member of our community," said Christa Wiens, Executive Director, Central Valley Justice Coalition. "Fresno EOC Central Valley Against Human Trafficking is proud to support the launch of the bipartisan Combating Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus. We are encouraged to see leaders coming together to strengthen national efforts to prevent trafficking and support survivors. As a direct service provider and leading organization of the Central Valley Freedom Coalition, a regional collaborative within California's Central Valley, we recognize the critical role federal leadership plays in advancing victim-centered responses and prevention strategies. We look forward to continued collaboration to ensure all survivors receive the support and protection they deserve," said Misty Gattie-Blanco, MS, Director for Sanctuary and Support Services, Central Valley Against Human Trafficking. "We support the launch of the bipartisan Combating Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus and the opportunity it creates to strengthen coordination and prevention across sectors. Our work, delivered in partnership with frontline organizations and informed by lived experience, shows that addressing trafficking and exploitation requires trauma-informed approaches, stronger systems, and sustained collaboration. Human trafficking is a global issue that demands shared accountability, and we are committed to strengthening prevention and supporting vulnerable populations," said Sarah de Carvalho, CEO, It's a Penalty. "Human trafficking cannot be addressed without centering the expertise of survivors and the organizations working alongside them every day. The formation of the Congressional Combating Human Trafficking Caucus signals a meaningful commitment to bipartisan leadership and survivor-informed policymaking. At 3Strands Global Foundation, we believe prevention, protection, and accountability must work together, and we look forward to partnering with members of Congress to advance solutions that strengthen communities and ensure survivors are not only heard, but empowered to help shape the policies that impact their lives," said Ashlie Bryant, CEO and Co-Founder, 3Strands Global Foundation. "Since 2012 Without Permission has served 1,162 survivors of sex trafficking throughout Stanislaus and San Joaquin counties, 732 of those were children under the age of 18. Without Permission has three pillars, Prevention, Restoration, and Justice. In Prevention alone we have educated over 50,000 students. In Restoration we work to restore the survivors and support their families on their healing journey. Our Justice department works with District Attorneys, Law Enforcement agencies, and collaborates to provide trainings and education for further victim support and prevention. Without Permission exists to end sex trafficking and we are thrilled and honored to support the Combatting Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus. We believe this Caucus will make a huge difference in the fight against Human Trafficking," said Clint Rangel, Director of Prevention, Without Permission. "The Kern Coalition Against Human Trafficking (KCAHT) stands in staunch support of victims and survivors of human trafficking through coordinated, community-based action. Since 2012, KCAHT has led a multidisciplinary approach that unites law enforcement, service providers, and community partners to deliver survivor-centered solutions and disrupt exploitation. KCAHT supports the Combating Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus and its commitment to advancing evidence-based policy, strengthening prevention and enforcement efforts, and elevating survivor voices at the national level. We commend the Caucus for its bipartisan leadership and focus on practical, survivor-informed solutions. We stay committed to working alongside federal, state, and local leaders to drive meaningful policy, expand access to critical services, and hold traffickers accountable. Thank you for your continued leadership and dedication to combating human trafficking across the United States," said Dustin Contreras, Co-Director, Kern Coalition Against Human Trafficking. "Kings Community Action Organization is proud to support the Combating Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus and its bipartisan commitment to strengthening prevention, protection, and prosecution efforts nationwide. The caucus's focus on elevating survivor voices, improving coordination across all levels of government, and advancing evidence based policies reflects our shared mission to protect vulnerable populations and hold traffickers accountable. We look forward to collaborating on initiatives that promote safety, justice, and meaningful support for all impacted by trafficking," said Joey Cox, M.A, Director of Intervention, Prevention, and Support Services, Kings Community Action Organization. "The California Commission on Sexual Exploitation is proud to support the launch of the bipartisan Combating Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus. This effort represents a critical step toward strengthening national coordination to prevent trafficking, protect survivors, and hold perpetrators accountable. We commend the leadership of the caucus founders for prioritizing this urgent issue and fostering collaboration across sectors. We look forward to supporting the caucus's work to advance meaningful policies and solutions that address human trafficking in all its forms," said Dr. Tiara King, CEO, California Commission on Sexual Exploitation. "The formation of the Congressional Combating Human Trafficking Caucus is a critical step forward in our nation's fight against one of the most heinous crimes imaginable. We are grateful to Rep. Valadao, McBath, Lee, and Carter for standing together in this bipartisan effort. At Street Grace, we know that lasting change requires bold policy, survivor-centered solutions, and unwavering political will and this caucus represents all three. We look forward to partnering with Congress to ensure that every child is protected and every trafficker is held accountable." said Bob Rodgers, CEO, Street Grace. Highlighting legislation that advances evidence-based prevention, programs, and other initiatives to combat human trafficking, including sex and labor trafficking. Supporting and enhancing the work of federal agencies to prevent trafficking, disrupt financial networks, improve data collection, hold perpetrators accountable, and protect trafficking survivors. Promoting sustained coordination among federal, state, and local partners to address trafficking ahead of large-scale events. Advancing policies that ensure access to economic stability, legal remedies, and supportive services for victims of human trafficking. Protecting youth and vulnerable populations through online safety safeguards, early intervention, and accountability for platforms that facilitate exploitation. Permalink: https://mcbath.house.gov/2026/3/representatives-mcbath-valadao-carter-lee-launch-bipartisan-caucus-to-combat-human-trafficking 2246 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Phone: (202) 225-4501 3330 Cumberland Boulevard SE, Suite 610 Atlanta, GA 30339 Phone: (470) 773-6330

House Passes McBath's Bipartisan Bill to Combat Human Trafficking

Washington, DC—Today, Representative Lucy McBath (GA-06) and Education and Workforce Committee Chairman Tim Walberg (R-MI) celebrated House passage of their H.R. 4307, the bipartisan Enhancing Detection of Human Trafficking Act. "Today, the House took an important step forward in the fight against human trafficking and passed our bipartisan bill. By strengthening the Department of Labor's ability to train personnel to recognize and report the warning signs of trafficking, we are reinforcing our commitment to protecting the most vulnerable from exploitation and abuse. Human trafficking is a grave violation of human rights that demands vigilance, coordination, and accountability at every level of government. I am proud to see my bill advance in the Congress, and I thank Chairman Walberg for his collaboration as we remain committed to ensuring that victims are protected and perpetrators are brought to justice," said Congresswoman McBath. "Today, lawmakers on both sides of the aisle took a stand in denouncing the scourge of human trafficking," said Chairman Walberg. "Very often, Department of Labor employees are the first to encounter signs of human trafficking, forced labor, and exploitation; the Enhancing Detection of Human Trafficking Act provides these employees with the tools and knowledge needed to detect and address this heinous crime. I was proud to co-sponsor this bipartisan bill alongside Congresswoman McBath to protect the most vulnerable, including women and children, from exploitation." H.R. 4307, Enhancing Detection of Human Trafficking Act: Permalink: https://mcbath.house.gov/2026/3/house-passes-bipartisan-bill-to-combat-human-trafficking 2246 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Phone: (202) 225-4501 3330 Cumberland Boulevard SE, Suite 610 Atlanta, GA 30339 Phone: (470) 773-6330

Judiciary Democrats Demand BOP Immediately Address Pervasive Staffing Shortages and Safety Failures

Position: The release calls for the Federal Bureau of Prisons to immediately address chronic staffing shortages and safety failures by increasing staffing levels, reversing wage cuts, ending hiring freezes, and restoring adequate compensation and benefits for correctional officers and support staff.

Washington, DC — Today, Rep. Jamie Raskin, Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Committee, Rep. Lucy McBath, Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Crime and Federal Government Surveillance, Rep. Jasmine Crockett, Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Oversight, and Rep. Joe Neguse, are demanding Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) Director William Marshall immediately remedy ongoing staffing shortages that have jeopardized the safety and security of both prison facilities personnel and inmates. Chronic understaffing—combined with pay cuts, hiring freezes, and high attrition—has pushed many BOP facilities into crisis conditions. The letter follows a 2025 oversight hearing held jointly by the Judiciary Committee's Subcommittee on Crime and Federal Government Surveillance and Subcommittee on Oversight, where Members examined long-standing challenges at BOP, including underfunding and staffing shortfalls spanning multiple administrations. Despite the seriousness of those concerns, the Majority declined to call a BOP witness to testify. "We are deeply concerned that these developments compromise the safety and security of both inmates and staff. The shrinking existing workforce has been left to contend with an ever-growing use of overtime, which leads to fatigue, burnout, and increased attrition. Insufficient staffing levels have led to lockdowns, heightening tensions among inmates, increasing instances of violence, limiting access to recidivism-reducing programming, further restricting the availability of medical and mental health care, and hindering institutional response to institutional emergencies such as assaults and suicide attempts," the Members wrote. Chronic staffing shortages across the BOP have undermined the agency's ability to carry out basic safety and security functions, forcing facilities to rely heavily on "augmentation"—assigning non-custody staff to guard housing units—instead of trained correctional officers. This practice, which also extends to critical healthcare and mental health staffing gaps, persists despite repeated congressional warnings to limit its use and ensure adequate staffing levels at federal prisons. Just three years ago, a Department of Justice Office of Inspector General (OIG) report found that 21% of authorized correctional officer positions were unfilled, forcing BOP to rely on non-custody staff—such as teachers, nurses, and cooks—to guard housing units. Rather than rectifying its shortcomings, BOP cut wages by as much as 25% for frontline officers, instituted a hiring freeze, canceled a collective bargaining agreement with over 30,000 federal correctional employees, and ceded experienced personnel to other law enforcement agencies offering higher wages, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). One BOP official told ProPublica , "We're broken and we're being poached by ICE." Whistleblower reports frequently highlight the consequences of undercutting reform and dismissing credible complaints. According to ProPublica's reporting , BOP staff and inmates alike lack basic personal hygiene products, and several facilities have fallen behind on utility bills and lack adequate access to food. Likewise, extended lockdowns due to understaffing have interfered with necessary—and in some cases, lifesaving—medical care, as well as re-entry programming required under the bipartisan First Step Act. The Members are requesting responses within 30 days on hiring practices, attrition rates, recruitment efforts, staff losses to ICE, compliance with the First Step Act, the use of augmentation, and plans to protect employee rights and improve safety following the cancellation of the collective bargaining agreement. Click here to read the letter. Permalink: https://mcbath.house.gov/2026/2/judiciary-democrats-demand-bop-immediately-address-pervasive-staffing-shortages-and-safety-failures 2246 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Phone: (202) 225-4501 3330 Cumberland Boulevard SE, Suite 610 Atlanta, GA 30339 Phone: (470) 773-6330

Ranking Member McBath Announces Gun Safety Legislation

Position: Rep. McBath is re-introducing federal legislation to establish extreme risk protection orders nationwide, allowing law enforcement and family members to petition courts to temporarily remove firearms from individuals deemed a danger to themselves or others.

Washington, DC – Today, Ranking Member Lucy McBath (GA-06) is announcing the re-introduction of the Federal Extreme Risk Protection Order Act of 2026 (FERPO). As the top Democrat on the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime, McBath has continued to lead common-sense gun safety legislation and encourage bipartisan support for the issue. "Too often in cases of mass shootings, someone had prior knowledge of the shooter's plan. Extreme risk protection orders are already saving lives in Republican and Democratic states, allowing law enforcement and family members to intervene before it's too late," said Rep. McBath. "My bill will expand these protections from coast to coast and give every American another tool to keep their communities safe." Extreme risk protection laws are meant to protect citizens and empower law enforcement by ensuring that those who pose a threat to themselves or others do not have access to firearms. Currently, 22 states and the District of Columbia have enacted extreme risk laws to allow law enforcement adequate time to respond to warning signs of a planned shooting or suicide. The Federal Extreme Risk Protection Order Act of 2026 would ensure nationwide access to this important gun violence prevention measure. This legislation was first introduced by McBath in 2019 as a companion to bipartisan legislation introduced in the Senate during the 115th Congress. H.R.2377, FERPO 2022, previously saw success in the 118th Congress, when it passed the House floor with a vote of 224-202, including support from 5 Republican members. A portion of it was also included in the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act to afford grants to states that have established Extreme Risk Protection Orders. This legislation is supported by Everytown for Gun Safety, Giffords, Brady United Against Gun Violence, Newtown Action Alliance, and Junior Newtown Action Alliance. "When someone shows clear warning signs of harming themselves or others, extreme risk protection orders give families and law enforcement a legal way to act before it's too late," said John Feinblatt, president of Everytown for Gun Safety. "These laws have strong bipartisan support in the states where they're saving lives every day, and we're grateful to Rep. McBath for her continued leadership in championing them nationwide." "When an individual is experiencing a mental health crisis, access to firearms can turn a serious situation into a tragedy. Extreme Risk Protection Orders (ERPOs) save lives by providing law enforcement and those closest to an at-risk individual a legal pathway to temporarily remove firearms from a dangerous equation. The Federal Extreme Risk Protection Order Act of 2026 would expand access to this lifesaving tool by allowing family, household members, and law enforcement officers to obtain ERPOs from federal courts. Brady is grateful to Representative McBath for introducing this lifesaving legislation and for her dedication to ending the gun violence epidemic," said Mark Collins, Director of Federal Policy, Brady. "As someone from the Sandy Hook community who has seen—up close—what happens when clear warning signs are met with inaction, I know how urgently we need this bill. Rep. McBath's Federal Extreme Risk Protection Order Act gives families and law enforcement a critical, life-saving tool to intervene before a moment of crisis turns into another funeral. We cannot keep allowing preventable tragedies to devastate families and communities. Congress must urgently pass this bill now to save lives," said Po Murray, Chairwoman, Newtown Action Alliance. "Too often, the warning signs of potential acts of gun violence are there, but the tools to act are not," said GIFFORDS Executive Director Emma Brown. "The Federal Extreme Risk Protection Orders Act creates a careful, temporary process to step in when someone is in crisis, preventing irreversible harm while respecting rights and due process. Congress should pass this bill because it can help save lives, especially when timing matters most." Permalink: https://mcbath.house.gov/2026/2/ranking-member-mcbath-announces-gun-safety-legislation 2246 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Phone: (202) 225-4501 3330 Cumberland Boulevard SE, Suite 610 Atlanta, GA 30339 Phone: (470) 773-6330