Texas House Bill HB2289

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Board of Criminal Justice, the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, and the Windham School District and to the functions of the Board of Pardons and Paroles and the Correctional Managed Health Care Committee.

Impact

By mandating the development of comprehensive reentry and reintegration plans, the bill aims to tackle recidivism by facilitating better preparation of offenders for life post-incarceration. It obliges the Texas Department of Criminal Justice to adopt a standardized risk and needs assessment instrument, which will help identify inmates' specific rehabilitation needs and provide tailored support. The collaborative framework outlined for the Windham School District also enhances educational opportunities for inmates, fostering skills that are essential for successful reintegration into the community.

Summary

House Bill 2289 focuses on the continuation and functions of the Texas Board of Criminal Justice, the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, and the Windham School District in Texas. The legislation emphasizes the responsibilities of these entities concerning the management of correctional health care, evaluation of inmate services, and the overall safety and reintegration of offenders into society. A significant point of the bill is the establishment of case management committees in correctional facilities to ensure that inmates are adequately assessed and placed in appropriate rehabilitation programs.

Contention

While proponents argue that the initiatives in HB 2289 will improve correctional health care services and reduce recidivism rates, some critics may express concerns over the adequacy of funding and resources required to implement these extensive measures. Ensuring that case management committees can operate effectively and deliver on their objectives is essential; otherwise, the bill's goals might not be met, leading to persistent challenges within Texas's correctional system.