The bill aims to reduce fees and expenses for communication services for individuals confined in state facilities in Washington. It mandates that the Department of Corrections and the Department of Children, Youth, and Families provide voice communication services, as well as other communication options like video calls and electronic messaging, free of charge to both the initiator and recipient of the communication. Additionally, the bill prohibits the departments from receiving any revenue from these services and ensures that such services do not replace in-person visitation. It also requires the provision of tablets at no cost to individuals in custody and maintains the same number of voice communication devices in housing units as of January 1, 2025.

The bill amends existing law to enhance transparency regarding contracts for telecommunication and electronic media services in state correctional facilities. It requires that contracts be publicly available and that detailed information about rates, fees, and services be prominently displayed on the department's website and in housing units. The bill also mandates annual reporting from contractors on service usage, fees, and compliance with the new regulations. The act is referred to as the "Connecting Families Act" and is set to take effect on December 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 72.09.765