Bill > SB676

This bill modifies the existing law regarding good conduct time for inmates in Texas, expanding the criteria by which inmates can earn this privilege. Currently, inmates can receive good conduct time credit if they are actively engaged in agricultural, vocational, educational, industrial, work, or treatment programs. The bill adds a new provision allowing inmates to also earn good conduct time by regularly attending religious services or studying religious texts. Good conduct time remains a privilege, not a right, and applies only to parole or mandatory supervision eligibility. The changes will apply to all individuals confined in Texas Department of Criminal Justice facilities on or after the effective date, regardless of when their original offense occurred. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, providing inmates with an additional pathway to potentially reduce their time served through constructive activities that now explicitly include religious engagement.

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https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB676