Bill > HB3841

This bill modifies the Texas Government Code to enhance the investigation process for deaths occurring in county jails. Specifically, the bill requires that within 30 days of being notified about a prisoner's death, the Texas Commission on Jail Standards must appoint a law enforcement agency (different from the local agency operating the jail) to investigate the death. The appointed agency must notify the commission about whether they will accept the investigation and must begin the investigation as soon as possible. The bill also mandates that the commission publish detailed information about each prisoner death on its website, including the county, date of death, investigating agency, and investigation status. This information must be updated monthly and remain publicly accessible for at least two years after the prisoner's death. The new requirements aim to increase transparency and accountability in investigating prisoner deaths, ensuring that independent agencies conduct thorough and timely investigations. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3841