Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Texas House Bill HCR148

Introduced
3/27/09  

Caption

Memorializing Congress to ensure that women in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention facilities receive full access to the medical care to which they are entitled.

Impact

The resolution draws attention to significant disparities in medical care access between women in ICE facilities and those in the Federal Bureau of Prisons, based on investigative reports. This call to action highlights the responsibility of both state and federal governments to meet the medical needs of detainees, particularly those who are most vulnerable. HCR148 could potentially influence policy changes or discussions regarding healthcare standards in immigration detention centers, further outlining the ethical obligations of the government to treat individuals humanely.

Summary

HCR148 is a concurrent resolution that memorializes Congress to ensure that women held in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facilities have full access to medical care as mandated by law. The resolution highlights the specific vulnerabilities of women in these facilities, many of whom have endured physical and mental trauma, including sexual assault. The text emphasizes that the U.S. government and ICE are responsible for providing adequate medical care during their detention, aligning with established national performance-based detention standards which claim to reflect equal care availability to that of the general prison population.

Conclusion

In conclusion, HCR148 is a pivotal measure calling for better care for women in ICE detention, emphasizing a humane approach to immigration enforcement. As it stands, the resolution not only seeks to improve treatment in these facilities but also advocates for broader reforms in the U.S. immigration system. Its passage could lead to tangible changes in the policies that govern detention health care, echoing a growing national discourse on the rights and well-being of all detainees.

Contention

As a memorial to Congress, HCR148 serves as an urgent request for enhanced oversight and improved health care provisions in ICE facilities. The implications of this resolution could stir debate among lawmakers about the treatment of detainees and may elicit responses from various advocacy groups focused on immigration and women's rights. Notably, there may be differing opinions regarding the extent to which federal agencies should be held accountable for the health and safety of individuals in custody.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.