Criminal justice advocates and the families of Texas inmates are calling for independent oversight of  the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) to help spot systemic issues before they once again result in tragic circumstances or costly litigation.

With the recent news of the excessive use of force resulting in the death of an inmate, case quotas, planted contraband, TDCJ officers being reprimanded and fired, and Wardens being reassigned, there is significant momentum for independent oversight.

TDCJ has various internal accountability mechanisms, but they do not and cannot serve the same role or offer the same benefits as external oversight, which promotes transparency, accountability, and good government.

And the need for oversight is most acutely felt by those living and working in the prisons every day. The views of these individuals must be given significant consideration.

For Texas families, communities, and the State, it should be clear that there are public safety and cost-savings benefits to developing a system of independent, external monitoring for prisons operated by TDCJ.

We hope you’ll join us in letting our elected officials know that we expect their support in passing this important legislation that will lead to improved relationships between the department and the public.

When you sign this form, we’ll let you know when it’s time to take action, with a reminder of your representatives and how to contact them.

Thank you,

Texas Inmate Families Association