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HJR 863

Memorials, Congress - Urges the U.S. Congress to enact H.R. 2350 (S. 1137), which permits states to deploy cell-phone jamming systems in prisons. -

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Susan Lynn

Tennessee urges Congress to permit states to install cell-phone jamming systems in prisons to block contraband communications by incarcerated individuals.

Placed on Senate Finance, Ways, and Means Committee calendar for 4/20/2026
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Bill Summary · HJR 863

Legislative bill overview

This Tennessee joint resolution urges Congress to pass federal legislation (H.R. 2350/S. 1137) that would allow states to install cell-phone jamming systems in correctional facilities. The bill is a memorial—a non-binding expression of the state legislature's position rather than state law itself.

Why is this important

Prison contraband phones enable inmates to coordinate criminal activity, harass witnesses, and manage operations from inside facilities, creating genuine security challenges for corrections officials. However, the proposal involves federal authority over communications technology and raises questions about implementation, cost, and unintended consequences that extend beyond prison walls.

Potential points of contention

  • FCC authority and spectrum concerns: Cell jamming would violate current FCC regulations prohibiting intentional signal interference; federal law would need rewriting, and jamming signals could affect nearby civilian networks
  • Technical effectiveness and collateral impact: Jamming systems may block emergency calls, affect nearby communities' cell service, and contraband phones can still receive signals even if outgoing calls are blocked
  • Cost and resource allocation: Installation and maintenance of jamming infrastructure in thousands of facilities nationwide would require substantial public funding with uncertain ROI
  • Privacy and civil liberties: Questions about whether blanket signal suppression raises Fourth Amendment or other constitutional concerns for inmates and surrounding populations

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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