Updated: April 1, 2025

Core to the mission of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice is protecting the public, our employees, and the inmates in our custody. Over the last several years, the agency has worked to increase the number of cool beds available. TDCJ is dedicated to continuing to add air-conditioned beds in our facilities.

During the 88th Texas Legislative session, TDCJ received a historic infusion of funding for major repair and improvement projects at facilities. Specifically, the agency received $85 million to install additional air conditioning. Additionally, TDCJ’s Legislative Appropriations Request for the FY2026-27 biennium includes an exceptional item request for $118 million for the installation of air conditioning. If approved, this would provide an additional 16,000 air-conditioned beds to the system, which would bring the total number of air-conditioned beds to more than 78,000.

Currently, TDCJ has 35 units fully air conditioned and 53 units partially air conditioned.

From April 15 through October 31, the agency implements enhanced procedures to lessen the effects of hot temperatures for those in our facilities.

Enhanced Heat Protocols