John Culberson: “This amendment would cut the Bureau of Prisons' operations by $10 million. This is a serious cut. The Bureau of Prisons…”

“This amendment would cut the Bureau of Prisons' operations by $10 million. This is a serious cut. The Bureau of Prisons performs an essential function in keeping our streets safe and protecting the people of America. We have already funded the youth mentoring programs in our bill today at $75 million. It is 25 percent above the request, because of the value of these programs. I certainly agree with the gentleman that these programs are successful, they are effective, but the Department of Justice is not even finished awarding the grants from fiscal year 2017, and this program is very healthy. This program would also, Mr. Chairman, eliminate a longstanding authority the Bureau of Prisons has had for contract flexibility that enables the Bureau of Prisons to manage its contracts in a way that benefits both the agency and the taxpayer. This includes contracts for halfway houses, reentry facilities, and juvenile detention. This burden would strap the Bureau of Prisons, putting pressure on them and putting inmates in more danger, putting officers and staff in greater danger. If we want prisoners to get healthcare and rehabilitation, Mr. Chairman, and prisoners and staff to be safe, we have to adequately fund the Bureau of Prisons. Mr. Chair, I urge Members to vote ``no'' on this amendment. Mr. Chair, I yield back the balance of my time.”