House Bill Sparks Debate Over Juvenile Justice Reforms In Texas

In a contentious legislative hearing, House Bill 3360 (HB 3360) was met with strong opposition from the Texas Civil Rights Project (TCRP) and other advocacy groups. The bill, which proposes significant changes to the juvenile justice system in Texas, was discussed in the Texas House Subcommittee on Juvenile Justice on Monday.

In a press release, the TCRP labeled HB 3360 as a “reckless bill” that would increase youth incarceration and expand the transfer of children to adult prisons. The organization argues that the bill strips judges of the discretion to consider appropriate juvenile sentencing, thereby entrenching a punitive approach over rehabilitation.

During the hearing, Alycia Castillo from TCRP stated, “At a time of heightened federal public scrutiny at the agency, due to their abuse of children, it’s really disturbing to me that we’re here today for this reason because it feels like we’re allowing this agency to reposition themselves as the victim in this narrative. And it’s working because we’re not talking about the abuse that children are enduring today. Instead, we’re talking about how to make conditions even harsher for kids”.

The hearing featured emotional testimonies, including that of Amnisty Freelen, mother of Joshua Beasley, a 16-year-old who died by suicide after being transferred to an adult prison. Freelen’s testimony highlighted the tragic consequences of the current system and the potential exacerbation under HB 3360.

Valentino Valdez, a survivor of violence in the Texas Juvenile Justice Department, also testified, sharing his experiences and advocating for alternatives that address the root causes of incarceration.

After escaping an abusive facility in 2014, he was sent to TJJD, despite being a documented ward of the state with a history of abuse. “I did not escape because I was dangerous; I escaped because I was being physically and mentally abused,” he explained.

Despite medical records showing a spinal injury, Valdez was subjected to harsh treatment, including restraints and isolation. He was also forced into a drug program despite no history of substance abuse. After a confrontation with an officer, Valdez was severely beaten by multiple staff members and left without medical care. No charges were filed against the officers.

Later, he was taken to court without Child Protective Services being notified and coerced into signing for four years with minimal legal counsel. “This is what happens when we let systems ignore abuse,” he stated, calling for accountability to protect other children.

Legislative and Public Response

While some legislators expressed concerns about the bill’s implications, others emphasized the need for reforms to enhance safety within juvenile facilities. Representative Gene Wu, for instance, pointed out the potential for the bill to further harm already vulnerable youth.

“If we take kids that are capable of being fixed and we put them into a system that is abusive, then we will get back adults who are abusive,” Wu said.

The discussion surrounding HB 3360 highlights the ongoing challenges in addressing safety, rehabilitation, and rights within the juvenile justice system. As the bill advances, stakeholders emphasize the importance of identifying solutions that prioritize the well-being and future of Texas youth. The next steps for the bill include further deliberations and potential amendments as it moves through the legislative process.