Texas House Bill HB1763

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Introduced: 2/24/11
• Refer: 3/3/11

Caption

Relating to the timely transfer of certain inmates from county jails to the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

Impact

If enacted, HB1763 would amend the Government Code to create stricter timeframes for the transfer of inmates sentenced for felonies. The potential impact on state law includes creating a legal obligation for TDCJ to expedite the acceptance of newly committed felons. This could lead to more efficient use of resources within the criminal justice system and improve the management of inmate populations at both county and state levels.

Summary

House Bill 1763 aims to modify the regulations governing the transfer of inmates from county jails to the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ). Specifically, the bill mandates that TDCJ must accept inmates within 30 days of completion of all processing required for their transfer, a change from the previous requirement which allowed for a longer timeline. This legislative effort reflects an aim to streamline the correctional process and ensure a timelier handling of inmate transitions, thus potentially alleviating overcrowding in county facilities.

Sentiment

Sentiment surrounding HB1763 appears to be generally supportive, particularly among those who advocate for criminal justice reform and improved management within correctional systems. Proponents believe that enhancing transfer timelines can reduce the burden on county jails and improve conditions for inmates awaiting transfer. However, some concerns may exist regarding the ability of TDCJ to comply with the new requirements given existing resource constraints.

Contention

A notable point of contention revolves around the practicality of enforcing the 30-day transfer rule. Critics may question whether TDCJ has the capacity and resources to meet the tighter deadlines without compromising the thoroughness of processing. There may also be debates regarding the implications for inmate care and support during the transition period, balancing efficiency with the need for adequate preparation for incoming inmates.