TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF CRIMINAL JUSTICEFrequently Asked Questions
Public Information
What is the difference between the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles and the Texas Board of Criminal Justice?
The primary role of the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles (BPP) is the discretionary release of eligible inmates sentenced to the Correctional Institutions Division to a plan of parole supervision. In addition, the Board is responsible for determining the conditions of release, imposing any special conditions for parole and mandatory supervision releasees on a case by case basis. The Parole Board also has revocation responsibilities related to parole and mandatory releasees. It also reviews requests for clemency (reprieves, commutations, pardons) and makes recommendations to the governor.
The nine-member Texas Board of Criminal Justice (TBCJ) is appointed by the governor to oversee the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, which provides confinement, supervision, rehabilitation, and reintegration of the state's convicted felons. TBCJ members have neither jurisdiction over nor input into parole decisions.
How do I contact the reentry hotline?
Reentry hotline number (877) 887-6151. See also Rehabilitation and Reentry Division.
How do I report fraud and waste?
Phone numbers to report waste, fraud, and abuse of TDCJ resources can be found here. There is also an online fraud tip form.
Who do I contact regarding questions about medical care for an incarcerated family member?
Health Services Family Hotline (936) 437-4271.
The Hotline hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon and 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. If you call during non-business hours with a medical concern, please leave a message. Please include your name, daytime phone number, the inmate’s full name, and TDCJ identification number. A Health Services representative will return your call during normal business hours.
Written correspondence:
Texas Department of Criminal Justice
Health Services Division Patient Liaison Program
2 Financial Plaza Suite 625
Huntsville, TX 77340
E-mail correspondence: health.services@tdcj.texas.gov
Please include your name, mailing address, the inmate’s full name, TDCJ identification number, and your medical concerns. Confidential medical information requests will not be responded to via e-mail due to a lack of confidentiality. A Health Services representative will respond by U.S. mail. Therefore, it is imperative that you provide a mailing address.
