AUSTIN – Today, Texas Lt. Governor Dan Patrick announced interim charges for the Criminal Justice Committee, the Subcommittee on Border Security, and Veterans Affairs and the Military Installations Committee. Interim charges for other committees will be announced Monday.

All the interim charges reflect the concerns and priorities of Texans across the state and include input from every senator.

“Police safety is a critically important issue and the Criminal Justice Committee will study how to better assess the dangers to those who serve and protect us as well as law enforcement efforts to expand community involvement,” Patrick said. “The committee will also continue their focus on Texas jail safety standards, including an emphasis on mental health and the improvement of existing re-entry programs for incarcerated persons once they are released.

“The Veteran Affairs and Military Installations committee will evaluate overall access to health and mental health services. The state of Texas is home to many veterans and we will continue to ensure that they receive the highest level of care possible.

“The Subcommittee on Border Security will review the challenges faced by law enforcement officials while protecting our borders,” continued Patrick. “This includes looking at the effects of Sanctuary City policies and the utilization of Priority Enforcement Program (PEP). The Joint Interim Committee to Study Border Security will continue to monitor the implementation of border security efforts across the state.

“These important issues affect the safety and security of our state and every Texan.  I look forward to the policy recommendations generated by these charges,” concluded Patrick.

ATTACHMENT:

84th Senate Interim Charges, Part 2 (348 KB, PDF)