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TX HB5565
Bill
Status
Introduced
3/14/2025
Primary Sponsor
Terry Canales
Click for details
AI Summary
- Creates a new independent state agency, the Office of Independent Oversight Ombudsman, to monitor conditions of confinement and treatment of offenders in Texas Department of Criminal Justice facilities
- Ombudsman is appointed by the governor from recommendations by legislative committee chairs, serves a 4-year term removable only for good cause, and is limited to two terms
- Grants the office broad powers including unannounced facility inspections, access to TDCJ records, subpoena authority for private entity records and witnesses, and ability to investigate complaints from offenders, family members, and employees
- Prohibits TDCJ from retaliating against employees or offenders who file complaints or cooperate with office investigations; communications with the ombudsman are confidential and privileged
- Establishes a 9-member advisory board appointed by the governor including a former offender, former correctional officer, health care professional, social worker, and experts in investigations, sexual assault advocacy, and data analysis
- Requires periodic and annual reports to the governor, lieutenant governor, state auditor, and legislature on systemic issues, investigation results, and recommendations; initial ombudsman term expires February 1, 2029
Legislative Description
Relating to the creation of the office of independent oversight ombudsman for the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.
State Agencies, Boards & Commissions
Last Action
Referred to Corrections
4/7/2025
Committee Referrals
Corrections4/7/2025
Full Bill Text
No bill text available