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 that is not the local agency operating the jail to conduct the investigation. This change aims to ensure an independent investigation into such deaths.

The bill clarifies the circumstances under which an investigation is required, emphasizing the need for impartiality by involving a separate law enforcement agency. The new provisions will take effect on September 1, 2025, allowing time for implementation of the changes in the investigative process.

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