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HB 313

Relating to the temperature at which a facility operated by the Texas Department of Criminal Justice is maintained.

89th Legislature, 2nd Called Session (2025) Introduced by Ron Reynolds

HB 313 establishes temperature maintenance standards for Texas Department of Criminal Justice facilities to address inmate health and safety conditions.

Filed
#criminaljustice #texasdepartmentof(v8788) #corrections--jails&prisons(i0092)
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Bill Summary · HB 313

Legislative bill overview

HB 313 addresses the temperature maintenance standards for facilities operated by the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ). The bill establishes requirements for how warm or cool TDCJ facilities must be maintained, likely setting minimum or maximum temperature thresholds for incarcerated individuals' living spaces.

Why is this important

Prison conditions directly affect inmate health, safety, and litigation risk for the state. Temperature control in correctional facilities is a documented constitutional concern, as extreme heat or cold can pose serious health risks and has been the basis for multiple lawsuits against correctional systems nationwide.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost implications: Implementing or modifying climate control systems across numerous TDCJ facilities could require significant capital investment and ongoing operational expenses
  • Facility variation: Different facility types (maximum security, minimum security, medical units) may require different temperature standards, creating complexity in implementation
  • Constitutional vs. operational balance: Defining "adequate" temperature raises questions about whether standards reflect humane treatment, medical necessity, or practical operational constraints within budget limitations

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

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