Texas Law Sets Temperature Rules for Prisons

HB 313 is a state law that creates temperature standards for all facilities operated by the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. The bill was introduced by Representative Ron Reynolds and addresses an important issue: maintaining safe and healthy conditions inside prisons and other criminal justice facilities. The law requires that every facility controlled by the department keep indoor temperatures between 65 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. These specific temperature limits help protect the physical health and comfort of everyone inside—both workers and residents of the facilities. Extreme temperatures can cause serious health problems, especially for vulnerable populations. The law does not take effect immediately. The Texas Department of Criminal Justice has until September 1, 2026, to prepare and implement these temperature requirements. This gives the department time to upgrade heating and cooling systems if needed and to plan how to meet the new standards across all of its facilities. HB 313 represents our community's commitment to ensuring that conditions in criminal justice facilities meet basic health and safety standards. Citizens, advocates, and lawmakers can track this bill's progress as the Texas Legislature continues to work on criminal justice policy.