ACLU of Texas and Juvenile Justice Advocates Applaud Passage of Texas Youth Commission Reform Bill

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: media@aclu.org

Bill Unanimously Passes in State Senate

AUSTIN, TX – The American Civil Liberties Union of Texas and the Texas Coalition Advocating Justice for Juveniles (TCAJJ) applauded the unanimous passage in the State Senate today of SB 103, the omnibus reform legislation on the Texas Youth Commission (TYC). Both groups were thrilled to see the comprehensive bill pass so quickly after tumultuous weeks of scandals and revelations at the commission.

“In all of my years of legislative advocacy, I have never seen such a positive and progressive piece of reform legislation,” said Will Harrell, Executive Director for the ACLU of Texas. “The fact that it passed unanimously in Texas is stunning.”

The bill provides for greater oversight of the commission, reduces the population of inmates, enhances the quality of care, and sets the stage for the process of greater reform.

“The reform begins with the passage of SB 103, but it does not end there,” said Isela Gutierrez, Coordinator for TCAJJ. “Constant vigilance from parents, formerly incarcerated children, and the advocacy community is essential to the transformation of the Texas Youth Commission.”