AUSTIN, Texas — In a significant ruling, a federal judge has declared that the extreme heat conditions in Texas prisons are “plainly unconstitutional.” However, the judge stopped short of ordering the immediate installation of air conditioning, which could cost the state billions of dollars.
This ruling stems from a lawsuit initiated in 2023 by Bernie Tiede, a former mortician serving a life sentence, whose murder case inspired a well-known film. Several organizations advocating for the rights of prisoners joined the lawsuit, arguing that the dangerously high temperatures—often exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit—constitute cruel and unusual punishment.
Despite ruling in favor of the advocates, the judge did not mandate a swift solution. Lead attorney Jeff Edwards viewed the judge’s acknowledgment as a win, even if it means the fight continues in court. “We’ve shown our case,” Edwards explained. “The court acknowledged the state’s treatment of inmates is unconstitutional and puts lives at risk. This is just the beginning of reforming the Texas prison system.”
With over 130,000 individuals serving time, Texas holds the highest prison population in the United States. Currently, only about one-third of its 100 prison units have full air conditioning, leaving many inmates to endure unbearable conditions.
U.S. District Judge Robert Pitman pointed out that “excessive heat is likely serving as a form of unconstitutional punishment.” He acknowledged the complexities of ordering the state to invest in widespread air conditioning. Such an initiative would require months to implement and might not be feasible before the judge’s order expires in 90 days.
The judge also suggested the case would move forward to trial, where advocates can further press their argument. He warned the state that the outcome could likely require the installation of air conditioning in prisons if the case progresses.
In the meantime, Texas lawmakers are in session and are considering bills to mandate air conditioning in prisons. However, despite being a Republican-majority legislature, addressing the heat issue has been a long-standing concern that has yet to see meaningful action.
The Texas Department of Criminal Justice has not responded to inquiries regarding the judge’s ruling. Similar lawsuits over extreme heat conditions in prisons are emerging in other states like Louisiana and New Mexico.
Advocates for prisoners point to studies indicating a significant number of deaths in Texas prisons—linked to extreme heat—while the state maintains that it offers measures like fans and access to cooler areas to mitigate heat risks. Texas Department of Criminal Justice Director Bryan Collier has expressed a desire for air conditioning, yet insists that funding has not been made available by lawmakers to make it a reality.
In a modern society, it is troubling that such extreme conditions still exist within correctional institutions, reflecting a critical need for reform and better treatment of all individuals, regardless of their circumstances.
