BOP Program Statement 5347.01 § 1

was developed in response to the Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Act passed by

Congress in 2017. A January 2019 Department of Justice Report to Congress indicates the

suicide rate for law enforcement officers is estimated to be 17 per 100,000 people. Historically,

the Bureau’s suicide rate has been higher than the average law enforcement rate. The Bureau

recognizes the demands of correctional work and is committed to the safety and well-being of its

workforce.

This Program Statement outlines standards and assigns responsibilities to implement a

comprehensive Employee Wellness Program. Specifically, it establishes a leadership driven

model of support to tie existing services such as the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and

Correctional Support Teams (CST) with new supports, such as education at key points in staff

members’ careers. It enhances the agency’s focus on staff suicide prevention.

a. Program Objectives. The expected results of this program are:

■ To prevent BOP staff suicide;

■ To equip Bureau leaders with knowledge and tools to build a safe and supportive workplace

culture;

■ To establish expectations for local and national resources for Employee and support; and

■ To make the BOP workforce aware of available wellness and support resources and promote

their willingness to use them.

Institution Supplement. None required. Should local facilities make any changes outside the

required changes in the national policy or establish any additional local procedures to implement

the national policy, the local Union may invoke to negotiate procedures or appropriate

arrangements.