Type of Intervention: Executive Order
Sectors Involved: Civil Defence, Health
Intervention Categories: Finance policy and financial aid; Financial aid to health services
Level of Jurisdiction: Texas
Lead People/Agency: Governor Greg Abbott
Overview: Governor Greg Abbott today directed the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) to temporarily suspend inmate fees for health care services related to COVID-19.
Full details here: https://gov.texas.gov/news/post/governor-abbott-waives-health-care-fees-for-incarcerated-texans-in-tdcj-facilities
Type of Justification: Perception of an increased threat
Evidence/Justification: As we work to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, we are committed to protecting the health of individuals in state custody and the dedicated state employees working at TDCJ facilities, said Governor Abbott. “Waiving health care fees for offenders housed in TDCJ facilities will ensure that inmates experiencing any symptoms of COVID-19 receive immediate medical attention. This suspension will protect the health of both inmates and TDCJ staff, and is a crucial tool in our efforts to mitigate any potential spread of COVID-19 in closely confined populations.”