AUSTIN – Today, Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick along with Senator John Whitmire held a news conference announcing an interim study on jail safety standards in Texas.

“I have called on Criminal Justice Committee Chair Sen. Whitmire to conduct an interim study on our jail safety practices,” said Patrick.

“Our criminal justice system assumes a great responsibility for the people in our custody. In many instances, individuals have unresolved issues in their lives, particularly a mental illness, which has resulted in their arrest. It is our responsibility to make certain we have the necessary tools and resources to meet the health, welfare and safety needs of every individual in our custody,” stated Sen. Whitmire.

“I applaud Lt. Gov. Patrick for ensuring we will conduct an in-depth examination of our current practices, identify and address where our system is failing, and how the state can be more supportive to all involved,” concluded Sen. Whitmire.