Bail & Pretrial
PSRS Integration and Connectivity (API)
The Texas Code of Criminal Procedure requires the Public Safety Report System (PSRS) to be configured in a manner that supports API integration with local jail management systems (JMS) and case management systems (CMS).
What Is An API?
An Application Programming Interface (API) allows two computer systems to securely exchange information automatically. In the context of the Public Safety Report System (PSRS), an API may allow an authorized JMS or CMS to securely exchange approved information with PSRS without requiring duplicate manual entry.
For example, an API may allow information entered into a local JMS to automatically populate approved data fields within PSRS rather than requiring staff to enter the same information twice.
APIs can help agencies:
- Reduce duplicate data entry
- Improve efficiency and workflow integration
- Support more timely data exchange
- Minimize manual errors
- Allow approved systems to communicate securely
Grant Funding for API Connectivity:
During the most recent legislative session (89th Legislature), the statute was amended to authorize the Texas Office of Court Administration to provide grants to counties and municipalities to reimburse eligible costs associated with PSRS integration efforts.
Article 17.021 (h): The public safety report system must be configured to allow a county or municipality to integrate the jail records management system and case management systems used by the county with the public safety report system.
Article 17.021 (h-1): The office may provide grants to reimburse counties and municipalities for costs related to integrating the systems described by Subsection (h). The office is not required to provide a grant under this subsection unless the office is appropriated money for that purpose. This subsection expires August 31, 2027.
OCA is currently finalizing the grant request process and related program requirements. Additional information, including eligibility criteria, application guidance, and submission instructions, will be shared broadly once finalized and will also be made available on this webpage.
API Requests:
If you have questions regarding setting up an API with a Case or Jail Record Management System, please send an email to bail@txcourts.gov.
If you are a JMS or CMS third-party vendor or county IT and are ready to proceed with integration, please review the PSRS API Information and FAQ and fill out the information application at Public Safety Report System (PSRS) API Request Form – Fill out form
Once your application is received, you will receive a follow-up email from OCA with further instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Does API access replace PSRS use? No. Agencies remain responsible for ensuring required information is entered and certified appropriately.
- Does an API provide unrestricted access to PSRS data? No. Access is limited based on approved permissions and authorized functionality.
- Can any vendor connect to PSRS? No. Vendor integrations must be reviewed and approved by OCA.
- Will OCA build our local integration? No. Local agencies and vendors are generally responsible for development within approved specifications. However, the PSRS vendor, Catalis does offer support.
- Is technical support available? Yes. OCA serves as the primary point of contact for API coordination and request tracking, while technical implementation and production connectivity support are coordinated with the PSRS vendor, Catalis. This process assumes the vendor’s technical resource has experience with API integration development and is able to utilize the provided documentation to research, develop, test, and support the necessary integration code.