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Relating to providing certain discharged or released inmates with documentation to assist in obtaining employment.
Estimated Two-year Net Impact to General Revenue Related Funds for HB 918, As Introduced:
a negative impact of $6,143,360 through the biennium ending August 31, 2021.
The bill would make no appropriation but could provide the legal basis for an appropriation of
funds to implement the provisions of the bill.
HB 918 would require the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) to provide an inmate who is able to work, with a copy of the inmate’s job training record and work record, personal identification certificate, a certified copy of a resume that includes any trade learned by the inmate and their proficiency at that trade, and documentation that the inmate has completed a practice job interview.
In addition, the bill would require TDCJ to determine whether the inmate has a certified copy of their birth certificate and inmate’s social security card. If the inmate does not have the documents, TDCJ will submit a request to the appropriate entity on the inmate's behalf.
Texas Action supports HB 918 because it supports the principles of personal responsibility and limited government. This bill provides necessary documentation to assist former inmates who are taking responsibility after their incarceration by seeking jobs. Assisting former inmates in getting jobs and reintegrating into society is a proper goal of the criminal justice system in a limited government because this reduces recidivism rate and saves the state money.
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