HOUSTON, Texas–A federal judge in Texas ruled that the extreme heat in state prisons is unconstitutional, according to a lawsuit brought by inmates, yet no immediate enforcement to install air conditioning has been ordered.
Judge Robert Pitman said the plaintiffs, inmates who took legal action against the state, have a strong chance of winning their case.
Pitman’s decision emphasized the health risks faced by inmates due to high temperatures within the prison facilities.
The case arose from complaints about the lack of air conditioning in many Texas prisons, leading to allegations of cruel and unusual punishment.
The inmates’ lawsuit presented evidence regarding heat-related illnesses suffered by those incarcerated.
The lawsuit also included testimonies from experts and former prison officials regarding the dangers of excessive heat exposure.
Texas prison officials argued that they provide heat relief measures, including fans and access to cold showers.
The judge acknowledged the efforts made by prison authorities but deemed them insufficient to counteract the extreme conditions.
The Texas Department of Criminal Justice has not yet issued a statement following Judge Pitman’s ruling.