What does Preamble of Rehabilitation Through Reading Act of 2026 do?

This bill aims to establish an independent review process for the prohibition of books within Bureau of Prisons facilities. The bill's stated purpose is to require this independent review process and address other related matters.

What does SHORT TITLE. of Rehabilitation Through Reading Act of 2026 do?

This bill is formally titled the Rehabilitation Through Reading Act of 2026.

What does DEFINITIONS. of Rehabilitation Through Reading Act of 2026 do?

This section defines terms used within the Act. The term 'Director' refers to the Director of the Bureau of Prisons. The term 'professional librarian' is defined as a librarian holding a master's degree from an American Library Association-accredited program.

What does BANNED BOOKS IN PRISONS. of Rehabilitation Through Reading Act of 2026 do?

This section establishes a Publication Review Committee within the Bureau of Prisons to approve or disapprove the availability of books in prison facilities. The Committee must consist of at least five members, including the Federal Prison Oversight Act Ombudsman, a Bureau of Prisons librarian, an incarcerated individual, and someone with expertise in First Amendment law. The Director must submit a written request and explanation to the Committee to prohibit a book, and the Committee must approve the prohibition. Incarcerated individuals can appeal a book prohibition to the Committee. The Committee must issue a final determination within 90 days of a request or appeal. Books may not be prohibited to eliminate a disfavored viewpoint or content. The Committee's decisions are generally at its discretion and do not require Director approval. If an appeal is filed before a book is removed, the book must remain accessible until the Committee makes a final determination.

What does ANNUAL REPORTING REQUIREMENT. of Rehabilitation Through Reading Act of 2026 do?

This section establishes an annual reporting requirement for the Director. The Director must submit a report to the Senate and House Committees on the Judiciary. The report must detail books prohibited during the preceding fiscal year. The report must include a summary of each appeal filed under section 3(c)(2). The report must also include the status and final outcome of each appeal.

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Rehabilitation Through Reading Act of 2026

Last updated: 4/16/2026 · Introduced: 4/16/2026

Author: Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO)

TL;DR (AI)

This bill establishes a Publication Review Committee within the Bureau of Prisons to independently approve or disapprove book prohibitions, ensuring incarcerated individuals can appeal such decisions.
The Bureau of Prisons Director must annually report to Congress on all books prohibited and appeals filed regarding those prohibitions.
Book prohibitions are restricted to prevent the elimination of disfavored viewpoints and must be reviewed by the Publication Review Committee before implementation.

119th Congressin committeeOfficial page

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Other Sections

Includes provisions on preamble, short title., and 3 more.

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