This report highlights several existing successful restorative justice programs in Texasand offers recommendations based on effective restorative practices in other jurisdictions.Because crime is first and foremost an offense against the victim – victims shouldbe provided with enhanced restitution, greater input in sentencing, and a mechanism forsecuring prosecution when local prosecutors decline to act.With the state’s prisons approaching capacity with 150,000 inmates and more than half amillion Texans on parole or probation, the key to reducing long-term incarceration andsupervision costs is lowering the recidivism rate through initiatives such as victim-offender interaction programsthat emphasize accountability and penance.
Criminal Justice
Accountability, Transparency, and Public Safety: A Conservative Approach to Bail Bond Oversight
Texas’s fragmented bail system lacks oversight, allowing bondsmen to profit while repeat offenders cycle through release with little accountability. Statewide regulation would strengthen enforcement, improve data transparency, and better protect public safety across counties. Key Points The current regulations for bondsmen in Texas provides limited oversight and a lack of consistency, leading to incongruous enforcement...
July 27, 2026