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."