WASHINGTON, D.C. (LOOTPRESS) — The Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) has issued new guidance aimed at increasing the use of home confinement for eligible individuals under the First Step Act (FSA) and Second Chance Act (SCA). The policy, directed by BOP Director William K. Marshall III, is part of a broader effort to continue criminal justice reform efforts launched under the Trump administration.
The directive instructs prison staff to prioritize home confinement for individuals who do not require services provided by Residential Reentry Centers (RRCs) and are otherwise eligible for early release. This approach is designed to accelerate the reintegration of individuals who have served their time and earned credits under federal law.
“President Trump said he would fight for the forgotten men and women of this country, and the First Step Act proved he meant it,” said Director Marshall. “Now, we are ensuring that this reform continues to work—not just as a policy, but as a promise.”
Key Points of the New Policy:
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Home Confinement Priority: Eligible individuals not needing RRC services should be moved to home confinement as soon as legally allowed.
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Use of Earned Time Credits: Unit Teams must use projected Earned Time Credits (FTCs) to guide release planning and referrals.
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Statutory Clarity: Staff must correctly apply eligibility criteria under both FSA and SCA when calculating prerelease timelines.
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Individual Assessments: Placement decisions will be based on each person’s needs, risk level, and support systems.
The BOP says this updated policy reinforces its commitment to smart, fair, and safe justice reforms. According to the Bureau, the First Step Act has already helped thousands return to their communities with a lower-than-average recidivism rate, showing that justice reform and public safety can coexist.
The guidance reaffirms the Bureau’s dedication to the rule of law and equitable treatment, and emphasizes that second chances are a key part of a just system.
Officials say this policy not only builds on past reform efforts but also sets the stage for continued progress during President Trump’s second term, with a focus on completing the work started under the First Step Act.
