Bill · H.R. 7247· House(119-HR-7247)

Prison Libraries Act of 2026

Age: 82 years

Missouri

Introduced: 1/27/2026
Last activity: 1/27/2026 — Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.
Sponsored by: Emanuel Cleaver
Cosponsors: - 39 - 1

Crime and Law Enforcement

Introduced
In Committee

What this bill would do

The bill creates a grant program through the Attorney General to establish and improve prison libraries in states and territories. These grants aim to advance reintegration, reduce recidivism, and boost educational opportunities for incarcerated individuals. Eligible applicants must submit a plan, prove they have or want a physical library, and show demographic data demonstrating a need for funding. Grant funds can be used for education, job training, hiring qualified librarians, and providing computers, internet, and digital literacy training. The bill explicitly prohibits using the funds for items like food, general facility maintenance, or transportation. Additionally, the legislation authorizes an appropriation of $10,000,000 for each fiscal year from 2026 through 2031.

Yes· 3 of 10

Would people with disabilities be better off under this?+5
The bill provides access to audiobooks and specialized reading materials for the visually impaired and print disabled.
Does this get reliable internet to more people?+4
The bill provides funding for computer and internet access within prison libraries.
Would students be better off under this?+3
The bill facilitates access to post-secondary educational programming and resources.