An Act to repeal 20.410 (1) (ac); to create 20.410 (1) (ac), 301.03 (16m), 302.075 and 302.076 of the statutes; Relating to: climate control in state correctional institutions and county jails and houses of correction and making an appropriation. (FE)
Impact
The bill outlines a phased implementation plan for compliance, requiring one-third of state correctional institutions to meet these temperature standards by specific deadlines from 2029 to 2035. It also directs the Department of Corrections (DOC) to oversee the installations and report annually on adherence to these temperature regulations. A budget allocation includes an immediate appropriation of $500,000 for reporting and $750,000 annually for positions and updates related to HVAC systems, along with a large continuing appropriation to ensure effective installation and operations of these systems in the future.
Summary
Senate Bill 715 addresses the issue of climate control within state correctional institutions and county jails. The bill mandates that the warden or superintendent of a facility must ensure heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are functioning to maintain temperatures between 68°F and 76°F. This legislation aims to improve living conditions for inmates by setting forth specific temperature thresholds that must be adhered to year-round.
Contention
This bill has generated discussions concerning the appropriateness of public funding for such measures and the impact on facility operations. Supporters view the bill as essential for inmate welfare and public health regulations, arguing that adequate climate control is necessary for both humane treatment of inmates and community safety. Opponents may raise concerns over inflation in public spending and the prioritization of funding, suggesting that resources could be better allocated to programs aimed at rehabilitation rather than infrastructure improvements.
Crossfiled
An Act to repeal 20.410 (1) (ac); to create 20.410 (1) (ac), 301.03 (16m), 302.075 and 302.076 of the statutes; Relating to: climate control in state correctional institutions and county jails and houses of correction and making an appropriation. (FE)
Requires undergraduate students to file degree plan and requires institutions of higher education and certain propriety institutions to develop pathway systems to graduation.
Requires undergraduate students to file degree plan and requires institutions of higher education and certain proprietary institutions to develop pathway systems to graduation.
Establishes process for merger or consolidation of public institution of higher education with other institutions of higher education or certain proprietary institutions; requires executive and legislative approval of merger or consolidation.
Establishes process for merger or consolidation of public institution of higher education with other institutions of higher education or certain proprietary institutions; requires executive and legislative approval of merger or consolidation.
Relating to the issuance of a diploma to a student graduating from a public institution of higher education that has undergone a merger, acquisition, or name change.