TX HB3618

Requires the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) to adopt policies governing searches of rooms or areas where female inmates who are not fully clothed are present, mandating that female correctional officers conduct such searches when available

Male correctional officers conducting searches of unclothed female inmates must submit a written report explaining the reasons to the warden within 72 hours

Prohibits visual body cavity searches of female inmates accessing department programs (educational, vocational, substance use treatment, rehabilitation, life skills, and prerelease programs) except in exigent circumstances or with reasonable suspicion

Defines "exigent circumstances" as temporary, unforeseen situations requiring immediate action to combat security threats, explicitly excluding routine program access

Takes effect immediately with a two-thirds legislative vote, otherwise September 1, 2025