I want to keep an eye and focus on making sure that I protect their interests as well.

We also passed the bipartisan Safer Communities Act, the first major gun violence prevention legislation this country has seen in nearly 30 years.

I carry the pain of losing my child every single day here in Congress.

Together, we passed the American Rescue Plan, which included $350 billion in flexible aid to State and local governments.

Ensuring that inmates are treated with dignity and respect is an ethical priority, but it also furthers BOP's mission.

I want to take this time to thank the Congresswoman for everything that she has done for all of us, the least of us, the least of these.

Congress, this body, must do all that we can to address the staffing shortages that BOP is undergoing.

I urge my colleagues to use today's hearing to focus on what this Committee and what Congress can do to ensure that the Director has the tools, resources, and support that she needs to address agency deficiencies, maintain the safety and wellness of inmates and staff, and prepare inmates for their release back into society.

That is why I partnered with Representative Kelly Armstrong and Senators Jon Ossoff, Dick Durbin, and Mike Braun to introduce the bipartisan Federal Prison Oversight Act.

I am encouraged by Director Peters' commitment to upholding the highest ethical standards among BOP staff, staff members, and her dedicated efforts to change the culture at the BOP.

I will tell you our rights were violated because that gentleman--I will call him a gentleman--actually was transferred.