Texas House Bill HB2348

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Out of House Committee: 4/28/11
• Introduced: 3/7/11
• Refer: 3/10/11
• Refer: 4/4/11
• Report Pass: 4/21/11

Caption

Relating to certain standards applicable to certain prisoners confined in a county jail pending transfer to the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

Impact

The impact of HB2348, if enacted, would be observed in the standards regulating the treatment and housing of inmates awaiting transfer to state correctional facilities. By amending Chapter 511 of the Government Code to add Section 511.0089, the bill prohibits the Texas Commission on Jail Standards from enforcing classification requirements and minimum housing standards for this specific group of prisoners. Proponents of the bill argue that the existing procedural requirements may be burdensome and could delay necessary transfers, thereby affecting the overall efficiency of the criminal justice process.

Summary

House Bill 2348 relates to specific standards concerning prisoners who are confined in county jails while awaiting transfer to the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. This bill aims to establish guidelines around the classification and housing of these prisoners, specifically addressing those who have completed all required paperwork for transfer post-conviction or subsequent to the revocation of community supervision, parole, or mandatory supervision. The intent behind this bill is to streamline processes associated with the transfer of these individuals while ensuring that the necessary housing standards are appropriately managed.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB2348 revolve around the balance between maintaining adequate standards for housing inmates and ensuring a swift transfer process. Critics may raise concerns about what could happen if minimum standards are not upheld—whether it may lead to overcrowding or inadequate living conditions for prisoners awaiting transfer. Furthermore, implications about the broader context of prison reform and how this bill fits into the bigger picture of the criminal justice system may fuel debate among legislators and interest groups regarding the treatment and rights of incarcerated individuals.