BILL ANALYSIS

H.B. 3434

By: Reynolds

County Affairs

Committee Report (Unamended)

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Concerns have been raised regarding the living conditions and safety of persons confined in the Harris County jail. A study looking into these concerns could identify any gaps or problems at the jail and could provide a comprehensive analysis of the situation so that appropriate actions can be taken to improve the situation. H.B. 3434 seeks to address this issue by requiring the Commission on Jail Standards to conduct a study to evaluate the living conditions and safety of persons confined in the jail.

CRIMINAL JUSTICE IMPACT

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly create a criminal offense, increase the punishment for an existing criminal offense or category of offenses, or change the eligibility of a person for community supervision, parole, or mandatory supervision.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, department, agency, or institution.

ANALYSIS

H.B. 3434 requires the Commission on Jail Standards (TCJS) to conduct a study to evaluate the living conditions and safety of persons confined in the Harris County jail. The bill requires TCJS, not later than December 1, 2024, to submit to the legislature a written report on the study's results and any recommendations for legislative or other action to improve the living conditions and safety of such persons. The bill's provisions expire September 1, 2025.

EFFECTIVE DATE

On passage, or, if the bill does not receive the necessary vote, September 1, 2023.