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Trump Administration Moves To Eliminate Bureau Of Prisons Union

President Donald Trump has issued an executive order eliminating collective bargaining rights for federal unions, including those representing Bureau of Prisons employees. Using the Civil Service Reform Act of 1978, the order excludes DOJ agencies (including the BOP) from the Federal Labor-Management Relations Program, effectively stripping unions of their right to negotiate on behalf of employees. The order cites unions as obstructing agency management, justifying their exclusion from Chapter 71 of the U.S. Code, which previously granted unions their authority.

Bureau Of Prisons Is ‘Rudderless’ Operation, Says Former Director

A look at the Bureau of Prisons website and you will see some missing people in leadership. On January 20, 2025, former Bureau of Prisons (BOP) Director Colette Peters was dismissed and has since filed a challenge with the Merit Systems Protection Board over her termination. In a subsequent statement, Peters described the BOP as a “rudderless” organization without her leadership.

First Step Act Could Be Pathway To Successful Reentry For Prisoners

Imagine moving from New York to Maryland with a credit score of 700, only to be told your history doesn’t count and your score is now 300—you have to start over. This is precisely what happens to federally incarcerated individuals who complete rehabilitation programs, only to face state-level barriers that do not recognize their progress under the First Step Act.

Cases Show Medical Care Under Scrutiny At Federal Bureau Of Prisons

In mid-March 2024, John Dalaly began experiencing lower back pain—something he initially dismissed as a minor issue, possibly from work or exercise. However, serving a 28-month sentence at the satellite prison camp near USP Hazelton (WV) for bribery related to the Michigan Medical Marijuana Licensing Board, he soon realized the pain was worsening. As the weeks passed, his condition deteriorated. He repeatedly called his family, describing his worsening symptoms, and sought help from the prison’s medical staff. Despite his visits, Dalaly claimed the prison doctor misdiagnosed him with diabetes.

Mounting Problems At Bureau Of Prisons Facilities

Federal prison camps are often portrayed as the safest and easiest to manage within theFederal Bureau of Prisons (BOP). Most inmates housed in these facilities are minimum security, pose little risk of violence, and have a low likelihood of reoffending. With fewer correctional officers than higher-security prisons and minimal threats of violence, these camps should be among the most manageable institutions in the system.