This bill mandates that inmates in State and private correctional facilities be allowed to make telephone and video calls without any charges imposed on them or the other party. The legislation amends existing law to ensure that all telephone service contracts for inmates comply with State procurement provisions while eliminating previous stipulations regarding maximum rates for domestic calls. Notably, it allows for international calls to be made at no charge, provided that the contracts adhere to the relevant procurement laws.

The intent behind this bill is to facilitate better communication between incarcerated individuals and their families, which is believed to aid in rehabilitation and reduce recidivism rates. The sponsors highlight the financial strain that high phone call costs place on families of inmates, particularly those from low-income backgrounds, and aim to alleviate this burden by ensuring that all calls are free of charge.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 30:4-8.12, 30:4-8.13