Why can the Bureau of Prisons simply expand its vocational training program?
The Bureau of Prisons is an active supporter of vocational training programs; however, expanding the BOP’s vocational training program is an insufficient substitute for the FPI program for the following reasons: (1) While vocational training programs offer inmates an opportunity to learn a skill or trade, classroom instruction is no substitute for sustained “live” work experience; (2) The average sentence length for a federal inmate is 8 years. The average vocational training program duration is 18-24 months. Thus, vocational training must be a complement to, not a substitute for real work; and (3) FPI does not receive any appropriated funding. To support an expanded vocational training program, the BOP would have to request, from Congress, a significant increase in appropriated funds.
