Relating to the authority of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice to adopt a gender-responsive risk and needs assessment instrument.

SB 181 requires the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) to adopt a standardized risk and needs assessment instrument for all adult offenders. The bill specifically allows TDCJ to create gender-responsive versions of this instrument that account for factors affecting specific genders, such as trauma or health needs. This change directly impacts TDCJ's assessment practices and the evaluation of offenders in Texas' criminal justice system. The law takes effect on September 1, 2025.