The House Committee on Corrections

85th Legislature

May 1, 2018

10:00 a.m.

E2.010

Pursuant to a notice posted on April 10, 2018, the House Committee on Corrections met in a public hearing and was called to order by the chair, Representative White, at 10:04 a.m.

The initial quorum call was answered as follows: Representatives White; Allen; Romero, Jr.; and Sanford.

A quorum was present.

Chair White introduced Interim Charge #1, concerning a status report on the impact of Hurricane Harvey on the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

“Charge 1. Evaluate the Texas Department of Criminal Justice response to Hurricane Harvey. Recommend any changes that could improve the operational stability of state criminal justice institutions following a natural disaster and changes that would allow for a more effective response.”

Testimony was taken/registrations recorded.  (See attached witness list.)

Chair White introduced Interim Charge #4, concerning issues particular to women involved in the Texas criminal justice system. 

“Charge 4. Examine treatment options, services, and programs available to women in institutional settings, on community supervision, on parole, and in community-based programs. Make recommendations for best strategies to address the needs of women in the Texas criminal justice system.”

Testimony was taken/registrations recorded.  (See attached witness list.)

Chair White introduced Interim Charge #2, concerning programs and measures designed to facilitate successful community re-entry by those involved in the Texas criminal justice system who are released on probation, parole, or final discharge for time served.

“Charge 2.  Examine the use of social workers and peer support specialists in the Texas criminal justice system to assist individuals on probation, on parole, or who have been discharged, in order to reduce recidivism and improve outcomes. Identify best practices and make recommendations for legislative action.”

Testimony was taken/registrations recorded.  (See attached witness list.)

At 2:32 p.m., on the motion of the chair and without objection, the meeting was adjourned subject to the call of the chair.

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Rep. White, Chair

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Janis Reinken, Clerk