S. 238

(This measure has not been amended since it was introduced. The expanded summary of the Senate passed version is repeated here.)

Eric Williams Correctional Officer Protection Act of 2015

(Sec. 2) This bill amends the federal criminal code to require the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) to issue oleoresin capsicum spray (i.e., pepper spray) to officers and employees who respond to emergency situations at high-security, medium-security, and administrative facilities.

Officers and employees may use pepper spray to reduce violent acts by prisoners and visitors.

An officer of employee must complete a training course prior to receiving pepper spray and annually thereafter on its use. 

(Sec. 3) The Government Accountability Office must: (1) evaluate the effect of issuing pepper spray on reducing crime and violence in high-security, medium-security, and administrative facilities; (2) evaluate the advisability of issuing pepper spray at low- or minimum-security facilities; and (3) recommend safety improvements for BOP officers and employees.