WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Reps Glenn Thompson, R-Pa., and Don Davis, D-N.C., introduced the Keep Our Correctional Officers Paid Act, which would ensure that correctional officers at Bureau of Prisons (BOP) facilities continue to be paid year-round. 

The BOP faces unprecedented challenges in recruiting and retaining correctional staff, with multiple BOP facilities in Pennsylvania’s 15th Congressional District understaffed by at least 20% compared to their authorized levels. Uncertainty over when the next paycheck will arrive should not exacerbate these staffing shortages and difficult conditions of working in a prison environment. The Keep Our Correctional Officers Paid Act would guarantee that correctional officers – who are required to show up to work every day of the year – continue to receive a paycheck even during a lapse in federal appropriations.

“Federal Corrections Officers are essential personnel who work in a tough environment,” Thompson said. “They should have an assurance they’ll get paid should a lapse in federal funding occur. This is common sense and sends a clear message that we appreciate their work day in and day out.”

Davis agreed. “To ensure that correctional officers receive the same protections as other essential workers, we must pass this critical legislation and fulfill our duty to uphold public safety.” 

During the government shutdown in 2018-2019, BOP staff went 35 days without a paycheck. BOP facilities already face significant issues with retention and recruitment, resulting in staff having to work long overtime hours, being called in on their days off, and requiring other staff not trained for officer duties to be pulled into working those positions.