The bill introduced by Representative Upchurch aims to enhance communication access for inmates who are deaf, hard of hearing, or severely speech impaired within municipal and county correctional facilities, as well as state correctional institutions. It mandates that these facilities provide access to teletypewriters (TTYs) at no cost to eligible inmates. The bill defines "county correctional facility" and "municipal correctional facility," and specifies that each facility must ensure that inmates with these disabilities are not denied access to TTYs.

The proposed legislation includes specific sections (341.193, 753.022, and 5120.052) that outline the responsibilities of county and municipal correctional facilities, as well as state correctional institutions, in providing this access. The language emphasizes the importance of communication for inmates with disabilities and establishes clear requirements for compliance, ensuring that these individuals have the necessary tools to communicate effectively while incarcerated.