House Committee on County Affairs - 87th R.S. (2021)

Committee Members

Charges

Review the existing and anticipated populations in state prisons and city and county jails located near the Texas-Mexico border. Make recommendations for alleviating or addressing any increase or over-crowding that may result as well as any other particularized needs or circumstances that have arisen or could arise as a result of an increase in population in correctional facilities, including, but not limited to, intake capacity, adequacy of facilities and other health and safety considerations. Make recommendations to mitigate any associated costs borne by border counties and municipalities. (Joint charge with Committee on Corrections)

Review the ongoing development of federal laws, rules, and regulations associated with the distribution of the federal pandemic recovery funds, including reporting requirements, and make recommendations to the House Committee on Appropriations for use of the funds to respond to the Texas-Mexico border crisis.

Monitor the agencies and programs under the Committee’s jurisdiction and oversee the implementation of relevant legislation passed by the 87th Legislature. Conduct active oversight of all associated rulemaking and other governmental actions taken to ensure the intended legislative outcome of all legislation, including the following:
- HB 1545 87th R.S., relating to the continuation and functions of the Commission on Jail Standards;
- HB 1906 87th R.S., relating to grants awarded to reimburse counties for the cost of monitoring defendants and victims in cases involving family violence; and
- HB 2073 87th R.S., relating to quarantine leave for fire fighters, peace officers, detention officers, and emergency medical technicians employed by, appointed by, or elected for a political subdivision.

Complete study of assigned charges related to the Texas-Mexico border issued in June 2021.

Study statutorily mandated services provided by sheriffs and constables and determine whether fee schedules are set at sufficient levels to allow for cost recovery without placing undue burdens on recipients of those services.

For individuals in county jails and Texas Department of Criminal Justice facilities, or on community supervision or parole, examine:
- The availability of behavioral health services; and
- The current treatment and recovery options available for those who are experiencing withdrawal from drug or alcohol use.
- Make recommendations for best practices to address the needs of individuals requiring treatment. (Joint charge with Committee on Corrections)

Notes

Spiller appointed 3/9/2021. Jones appointed 5/18/2022.

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