U.S. senators are calling out the federal Bureau of Prisons for what they describe as discrimination against Christians and faith-based programs. In a rare bipartisan effort, Sen. James Lankford (R-OK) and Sen. Gary Peters (D-MI) are demanding answers on why these programs are being restricted, despite the provisions of the First Step Act.
The First Step Act, signed into law by President Donald Trump in 2018, mandates that the Bureau of Prisons assist inmates with re-entry efforts and work with faith-based organizations to reduce recidivism. However, implementation has been slow, prompting frustration from lawmakers.
Sen. Lankford emphasized the transformative power of faith for inmates, stating, “I think Jesus lives in prison because it seems like so many people meet Him while they’re there. I would tell you that the love of God pours out to individuals regardless of their past.” He highlighted personal testimonies of inmates who turned their lives around through faith-based programs, noting their effectiveness in reducing repeat offenses.
The senators have formally written to Colette Peters, the director of the Bureau of Prisons, expressing concerns that these beneficial programs are not being fully implemented. They pointed out that of eight faith-based applications submitted to the bureau, five were denied, two approved, and one remains pending.
“It is her responsibility to make sure that there’s equal opportunity,” Lankford said, stressing that people of faith should not be blocked from participating in programs that can lead to rehabilitation and reintegration into society. The lack of progress six years after the First Step Act became law is troubling to lawmakers who see faith-based programs as essential tools in helping inmates rebuild their lives.
“We don’t want people that are in prison to end up in prison over and over again,” Lankford told CBN News. “If they can have a life change while they’re in prison and they end up reconnecting with their family, get a job, actually get into society, that’s better for everybody.”
The bipartisan effort underscores the importance of faith-based rehabilitation and the need for the Bureau of Prisons to uphold its responsibilities under the law.
