Bill > HB1416

This bill amends Texas Government Code to improve program accessibility for female inmates in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ). The legislation requires TDCJ to develop policies that increase female inmates' access to a comprehensive range of programs, including parenting classes, educational courses, vocational training, substance use treatment, rehabilitation services, life skills training, and prerelease programs. Importantly, the bill mandates that these programs must be made available to female inmates within 45 days of their arrival at a facility and ensures that the program opportunities are equitable to those provided to male inmates. The bill also requires that vocational programs be substantively relevant to current workforce demands and opportunities. Additionally, TDCJ must submit an annual written report to state leadership detailing the policies created or modified to meet these requirements and listing the programs available to female inmates. The report must also be published on the department's website. These changes aim to address potential disparities in program access and support for female inmates, with the bill set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Justice

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1416