Texas Legislature Considers Air Conditioning for State Prisons Amid Rising Heat Concerns
As Texas endures increasingly severe heatwaves, the state legislature is actively debating measures to address the lack of air conditioning in its prisons. Currently, approximately 70% of state-run facilities lack comprehensive climate control, subjecting inmates and staff to temperatures often exceeding 100°F during summer months. (dallasnews.com)
In April 2023, the Texas House passed Senate Bill 1708, which mandates that temperatures within state-run jails and prisons be maintained between 65 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit, aligning with standards set for county jails. The bill now awaits further consideration in the Texas Senate. (dallasnews.com)
The Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) estimates that installing air conditioning across all uncooled prisons would cost approximately $1 billion, with an additional $140 million annually for utilities and maintenance. However, some lawmakers question the accuracy of these estimates, citing previous instances where costs were significantly reduced during legal proceedings. (texastribune.org)
Legal challenges have intensified the urgency of this issue. A federal judge recently ruled that the extreme heat conditions in Texas prisons are unconstitutional but refrained from ordering immediate installation of air conditioning, citing the substantial costs involved. This ruling may influence similar lawsuits across the Southern United States, where extreme heat in prisons is a significant concern. (apnews.com)
Advocates argue that air conditioning is essential for the health and safety of both inmates and staff, emphasizing that prolonged exposure to extreme heat can lead to serious health complications and even fatalities. As the legislative session progresses, the debate continues over balancing fiscal constraints with the imperative to provide humane conditions within the state’s correctional facilities.
Legal and Legislative Developments on Prison Air Conditioning in Texas:
- Judge says heat in Texas prisons unconstitutional as states face mounting lawsuits
- Judge says extreme heat in Texas prisons is unconstitutional but doesn’t order they install AC
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