Senator Huffman presented House Bill 2756, a measure prompted by the November 2023 death of correctional officer Jovian Motley at the Wainwright unit. The bill requires preservice and annual training for TDCJ correctional officers and supervisors in de-escalation, crisis intervention, alternatives to force, cell-extraction safety and basic lifesaving procedures.

Family members of Officer Motley testified. Jovian’s sister, Ayanna Motley, and his mother, Tameka Motley, urged the committee to adopt the bill so other officers receive training and resources that could prevent similar tragedies.

Sponsor and witnesses described cell extractions as high-risk events in which a single inmate can inflict severe harm. Lauren Johnson, justice director at Dream.org, and representatives of TDCJ and advocacy groups supported the training requirement as a safety measure for staff and inmates.

The committee took invited and public testimony, closed the record and reported the bill favorably to the full Senate; the committee also recommended the bill be placed on the local noncontested calendar.