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HB 2854

Relating to the required approval of certain hospital visits as a condition of release on parole or to mandatory supervision for certain releasees and to the hospital's liability for damages resulting from those visits.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Rafael Anchía and 13 co-sponsors

Texas law now requires parolee hospital visits be pre-approved and shields hospitals from liability related to those visits, taking effect September 1, 2025.

Effective on 9/1/25
#civilremedies&liabilities(i0065) #corrections--parole #probation&pardons(i0093) #electronicinformationsystems(i0311) #hospitals(i0400) #mandatory&communitysupervision(s2314) #pokuaa-flowersact(pz6nj)
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Bill Summary · HB 2854

Legislative bill overview

HB 2854 requires certain paroled or released inmates to obtain hospital approval before visiting hospitals as a condition of their release, and establishes liability protections for hospitals regarding damages arising from these mandated visits. The bill essentially gives hospitals authority to approve or deny visitation by individuals under parole or mandatory supervision, while shielding hospitals from lawsuits related to those visits.

Why is this important

This legislation directly affects the reentry process for thousands of Texas inmates annually, potentially impacting their ability to visit dying relatives, receive medical care, or maintain family connections during critical moments. It also clarifies legal liability for hospitals, which could influence their policies on parolee visitation and access to healthcare facilities during vulnerable periods of criminal justice supervision.

Potential points of contention

  • Family separation concerns: Requiring parole approval for hospital visits (including deathbed visits) may prevent individuals from saying goodbye to dying family members, raising humanitarian and rehabilitation concerns
  • Healthcare access barriers: Parolees needing medical treatment or family members needing support during hospitalization could face administrative obstacles that delay critical care or emotional support
  • Liability shield implications: Broad liability protections for hospitals could discourage thorough vetting of visitation policies or create indifference toward parolee access needs, potentially enabling discriminatory practices without legal recourse

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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