Texas House Bill HB2246

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to the ratio of correctional officers to prisoners in a county jail.

Impact

The implementation of HB 2246 is poised to influence the operational standards of county jails across Texas. By establishing clear staffing requirements, the bill seeks to improve the working conditions for correctional officers while also addressing concerns regarding inmate safety and management. The requirement for sufficient supervisory personnel is expected to bolster accountability and effectiveness within jail operations, thereby promoting a more secure environment for all individuals within the facilities.

Summary

House Bill 2246 addresses the staffing requirements for correctional facilities in Texas, specifically focusing on the ratio of correctional officers to prisoners in county jails. The bill mandates that each floor of a county jail housing ten or more prisoners must have at least one correctional officer present. Additionally, the legislation stipulates that there should be one correctional officer for every 48 prisoners on each floor. These measures aim to enhance safety within jails by ensuring adequate supervision and support for both officers and inmates.

Contention

There may be points of contention surrounding the bill, particularly regarding the financial implications for county budgets. Local governments will be responsible for providing the necessary resources to meet these staffing requirements, which could strain budgets, especially in smaller counties with limited financial resources. Additionally, discussions may arise regarding the sufficiency of these ratios in truly addressing the complex issues of jail overcrowding and inmate care. Stakeholders may debate the balance between ensuring safety and managing costs effectively.