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 person initiating and receiving the communication. Additionally, the bill stipulates that the departments cannot generate revenue from these services and must maintain the same level of access to communication services as of January 1, 2025. It also emphasizes that these communication services should not replace in-person visitation.

Furthermore, the bill amends existing law regarding contracts for telecommunication and electronic media services in state correctional facilities. It requires that contracts be publicly available and detailed information about rates and fees be prominently displayed on the department's website and on tablets provided to incarcerated individuals. The bill also introduces new definitions for terms related to telecommunication and electronic media services, ensuring clarity in the services offered. The act is titled the "Connecting Families Act" and is set to take effect on December 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 72.09.765