Federal lawsuit aims to force Texas prisons to have mandatory air conditioning

The transcript discusses a lawsuit against the Texas Department of Criminal Justice over extreme heat conditions in prisons, which have led to inmate deaths. Despite some relief measures, staffing shortages and lack of air conditioning exacerbate the issue. Advocacy groups are pushing for mandatory AC installation, citing a state surplus. Comparisons are made to animal shelters, and a federal judge is considering emergency relief. The case highlights broader issues in other states as well.

What is the main issue highlighted in the first section regarding Texas prisons?

• Lack of air conditioning leading to extreme heat

• Inadequate food supply

• Poor sanitation facilities

• Overcrowding in prisons

What does the lawsuit against the Texas Department of Criminal Justice claim?

• Prisoners are being cooked to death due to lack of climate control

• Prisoners are not receiving enough food

• Inmates are being denied visitation rights

• Inmates are being denied medical care

How many units in Texas prisons have no air conditioning at all?

• 14 units

• 130 units

• 31 units

• 55 units

What is the proposed temperature range for Texas prisons according to the bill?

• 60 to 80 degrees

• 65 to 85 degrees

• 75 to 95 degrees

• 70 to 90 degrees

Which states, besides Texas, are mentioned as having ongoing lawsuits over extreme heat in prisons?

• California, Nevada, Arizona

• Florida, Alabama, Mississippi

• Oklahoma, Arkansas, Tennessee

• Louisiana, New Mexico, Georgia