The bill, S.B. No. 1199, amends Section 511.021(a) of the Government Code to establish new protocols for investigating the death of a prisoner in county jail. Specifically, it stipulates that in cases of death that are not determined to be from natural causes by a physician during an autopsy or examination, the commission must appoint a law enforcement agency, distinct from the local agency operating the jail, to conduct the investigation. This change aims to ensure an impartial investigation into such deaths.

The bill emphasizes the importance of timely investigations by requiring the appointed law enforcement agency to act as soon as possible following the death. The new provisions will take effect on September 1, 2025, thereby enhancing oversight and accountability in the handling of prisoner deaths in county jails.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 511.021 (Government Code 511)