A federal judge has ruled that the lack of air conditioning in Texas prisons constitutes unconstitutional treatment, marking a significant development in the ongoing debate over prison conditions.
U.S. District Judge Robert Pitman stated that housing inmates in extreme heat, where temperatures often exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit, amounts to cruel and unusual punishment.
The ruling follows years of advocacy from prisoners' rights groups, who argue that the sweltering conditions endanger the health and safety of incarcerated individuals.
Despite the ruling, the judge stopped short of mandating the immediate installation of air conditioning across Texas prisons, citing the immense cost and logistical challenges.
Instead, the case will proceed to trial, where advocates will continue to push for systemic changes. Currently, only about one-third of Texas prison units are fully air-conditioned, leaving thousands of inmates vulnerable to dangerous heat levels.
The decision has reignited calls for legislative action, with several bills proposed to address the issue, though none have yet advanced.
Advocates hope the ruling will pressure state lawmakers to prioritize funding for prison air conditioning and improve conditions for those behind bars.