New Texas Bill Aims to Tackle Extreme Heat in Prisons

The Texas Legislature is back in session, this time for a special session. Many items will be discussed, and other bills will be introduced.

One of the bills introduced is Texas Senate Bill 5, which will put regulations on hemp products.

Read More: Gov. Abbott Vetoed THC Ban, SB 5 Reopens Statewide THC Fight

However, another bill introduced, awaiting approval during this special session, will bring a reprieve from the heat in Texas prisons.

Some prisons in Texas do not have air conditioning, and the heat conditions can get dangerous for the inmates. House Bill 145 was introduced on Monday, July 21, 2025, and if passed, will make it illegal for TDCJ prisons to go below or above a certain temperature.

What Does House Bill 145 Propose?

The bill would require all TDCJ facilities to keep the temperature indoors between 65 degrees Fahrenheit and no more than 85 degrees Fahrenheit.  If passed, the law would go into effect on September 1, 2025. However, the TDCJ would not have to meet these new requirements until September 1, 2026, giving them time to upgrade the facilities.

Read More: Judge Rules Texas Prison Heat Unconstitutional, But No Enforcement

According to the TDCJ, 35 units are fully air-conditioned, while 54 units have only partial air conditioning. A study conducted by Brown, Boston, and Harvard universities found that between 2001 and 2019, 13% of deaths inside Texas prisons without universal air conditioning may have been attributed to the heat.

What Do Current Jail Standards Require?

Texas jails are required to follow this rule, according to the Texas Administrative Code Title 37, Part 9, Chapter 259, Section 259.446. The temperature in jails must be maintained between 65 degrees Fahrenheit and 85 degrees Fahrenheit in all occupied areas.  It makes sense that the same rule should be followed in the TDCJ.

When Would This New Law Take Effect?

This bill still has to be voted on by the Texas House of Representatives and the Texas Senate before it moves to the governor for a final signature.