Read for Reentry Act of 2026
To require a GAO study on State and Federal prison libraries, and for other purposes.
The Read for Reentry Act of 2026 proposes to have the Government Accountability Office (GAO) conduct a study on state and federal prison libraries. The aim is to assess the effectiveness of these libraries in aiding inmates' rehabilitation and preparation for reentry into society. The bill is intended to highlight the importance of providing inmates with access to books and educational resources, which can help reduce recidivism rates.
This legislation would primarily affect state and federal prison systems, as well as the GAO, which would carry out the study. The findings from this study could influence future policies and funding decisions related to prison libraries, ultimately impacting the inmates who use these resources.
The bill was introduced on July 30, 2026, and referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary for further consideration. At this stage, it is in the initial phase of the legislative process, and no further actions have been taken yet.
