Texas Prison Bid'ness

Last week, Texas lawmakers heard HB 3247 a measure impacting county jail contracts and requires collective bargaining agreements.  Specifically, the bill voids any county contracts with private prison operators unless:

•  The county enters into the contract in a collective bargaining agreement between the county and sheriff's department employees.

We hear that the Combined Law Enforcement Association of Texas (CLEAT) supports HB 3247. 

Texas statute already voids contracts if it is proven that county commissioners, elected, or appointed peace officers has a financial interest in the private management company. 

Lawmakers are considering other bills that impact private jail contracts as well.  

We will keep y'all posted on the developments of HB 3247 and other proposed legislation.