Texas Senate Bill SB820

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to the purchase and installation of climate control systems at facilities operated by the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

Impact

The implementation of SB820 would have a broad impact on state laws governing the operation of correctional facilities. It would require the Department of Criminal Justice to prioritize inmate welfare through the installation of adequate climate controls. By mandating these improvements, the bill may lead to enhanced health and safety standards within the state's correctional system, thereby potentially reducing heat-related incidents among inmates.

Summary

Senate Bill 820 mandates the purchase and installation of climate control systems at Texas Department of Criminal Justice facilities that lack such systems. The bill's primary objective is to ensure that all facilities maintain a temperature range between 65 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit, addressing concerns about the comfort and safety of inmates within these environments. The implementation of this bill is structured in three phases, each involving significant financial allocations and a competitive bidding process to promote efficient resource use.

Contention

Some points of contention surrounding the bill may arise regarding the adequacy of funding and resources dedicated to upgrading these systems across multiple facilities. The phased approach, which extends the timeline for full implementation to 2028, raises questions about immediate needs versus long-term planning. Stakeholders may debate whether the allocated budget of $100 million per phase is sufficient to cover all facilities effectively and whether prioritizing certain facilities over others is fair or equitable.