Texas House Bill HB2119

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Out of House Committee: 4/11/11
• Voted on by House: 5/15/11
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/21/11
• Voted on by Senate: 5/25/11
• Engrossed: 5/15/11
• Governor Action: 6/17/11
• Refer: 5/16/11
• Report Pass: 5/21/11
• Enrolled: 5/27/11
• Passed: 6/17/11

Caption

Relating to the requirement that the Texas Correctional Office on Offenders with Medical or Mental Impairments provide certain services and programs.

Impact

The implications of HB2119 are considerable for the state's legislative funding landscape and the operational capabilities of the Texas Correctional Office. By tying the provision of essential services to state appropriations, the bill creates a framework in which the Office's capabilities can fluctuate based on funding decisions made by the legislature. This could potentially lead to reduced access to necessary medical and mental health services, particularly during times when state budgets are tight or funding priorities shift. Furthermore, this may also affect the overall wellbeing of offenders with impairments, raising concerns among advocacy groups and stakeholders focused on inmate health.

Summary

House Bill 2119 addresses the operations of the Texas Correctional Office on Offenders with Medical or Mental Impairments. The bill stipulates that the Office is required to provide certain services and programs only if the Texas Legislature appropriates specific funds for that purpose. This provision allows the Office some discretion in offering services depending on available appropriations if targeted funding is not provided by the state assembly. This approach emphasizes the connection between funding and service delivery within correctional health programs, thereby laying the groundwork for further legislative discussions about offender care.

Contention

While the intention behind the bill may be to ensure that funds are allocated efficiently and effectively, critics may argue that relying on appropriations can undermine the consistency and reliability of necessary services for offenders. Without guaranteed funding, the risk of service disruptions increases, potentially impacting rehabilitation efforts and overall prison health conditions. Additionally, there may be debate regarding the adequacy of appropriations and the prioritization of mental and medical services over other budgetary concerns, raising ethical questions about the treatment of vulnerable populations within the correctional system.