Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Texas House Bill HB1084

Filed
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the reporting of certain information regarding inmates and the use of administrative segregation by the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

Impact

The implementation of HB 1084 could significantly alter the landscape of inmate management in Texas prisons. By requiring annual reporting on various metrics related to administrative segregation, it aims to inform state leadership about ongoing issues within the TDCJ. In particular, the bill emphasizes the mental health needs of inmates and assesses the frequently criticized practice of prolonged solitary confinement, which can lead to detrimental psychological effects and hinder rehabilitation efforts.

Summary

House Bill 1084 addresses the reporting and use of administrative segregation within the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ). The bill mandates annual reports detailing the conditions and demographic information regarding inmates in administrative segregation, including mental health referrals and recidivism rates. This legislation seeks to enhance accountability and transparency within the correctional system, particularly concerning how inmates are treated while in administrative segregation.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB 1084 appears to be cautiously optimistic. Advocates for criminal justice reform and mental health awareness have expressed support for this bill, viewing it as a potential step toward improving inmate conditions and reducing the stigma associated with mental health issues in prisons. However, some legislators raise concerns that without adequate funding and resources, the goal of improving inmate welfare may not be achieved.

Contention

Debate surrounds the bill primarily concerning its implementation and the resources required to maintain the reporting systems. Some legislators worry that while the intention of enhancing oversight is laudable, it could impose an undue administrative burden on the already struggling TDCJ. Additionally, there is contention over how effectively the data will be used to enact real change and whether it will lead to meaningful reforms in the treatment of inmates in administrative segregation.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB813

Relating to a study on the impact of the use of administrative segregation on inmates of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

TX HB812

Relating to limitations on the use of administrative segregation by the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

TX HB1539

Relating to program accessibility for female inmates of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

TX SB1146

Relating to the medical transportation and care for certain inmates in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

TX HB2044

Relating to depression screenings for certain women in county jail or in the custody of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

TX SB444

Relating to depression screenings for certain women in county jail or in the custody of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

TX HB967

Relating to program accessibility for female inmates of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

TX HB3739

Relating to the medical transportation and care for certain inmates in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

TX HB607

Relating to the solicitation of pen pals by certain inmates of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

TX SB151

Relating to the possession of certain photographs and images by inmates of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

Similar Bills

KY HB422

AN ACT relating to administrative regulations.

KY HB6

AN ACT relating to administrative regulations and declaring an emergency.

KY SB23

AN ACT relating to administrative regulations and declaring an emergency.

KY SB20

AN ACT relating to administrative regulations and declaring an emergency.

KY HB81

AN ACT relating to governmental accountability and declaring an emergency.

KY SB65

AN ACT relating to deficient administrative regulations and declaring an emergency.

KY HB594

AN ACT relating to administrative regulations and declaring an emergency.

KY HB40

AN ACT relating to administrative regulations and declaring an emergency.