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Bill

S 4160

Provides voice communication service to incarcerated people at no cost; repealer

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Jamaal Bailey and 12 co-sponsors

Bill S 4160 ensures free voice communication for incarcerated individuals, easing family financial burdens and promoting better connections and support for rehabilitation.

REPORTED AND COMMITTED TO FINANCE
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · S 4160

Summary of Bill S 4160

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: S 4160
  • Title: Provides voice communication service to incarcerated people at no cost; repealer
  • Status: Reported and Committed to Finance
  • Introduced: February 03, 2025
  • Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill S 4160 aims to ensure that incarcerated individuals have access to voice communication services without any associated costs. The intent behind this legislation is to facilitate better communication between incarcerated individuals and their families, legal representatives, and support networks, thereby promoting rehabilitation and reducing recidivism.

Key Provisions

  • Free Voice Communication Services: The bill mandates that voice communication services, such as phone calls, be provided to incarcerated individuals at no cost. This provision seeks to eliminate the financial burden often placed on families and friends of incarcerated individuals who currently pay for these services.
  • Repealer Clause: The bill includes a repealer clause, which suggests that it may revoke or amend existing laws or regulations that impose costs on incarcerated individuals for voice communication services.

Impact

  • Incarcerated Individuals: The primary beneficiaries of this bill will be incarcerated individuals who will gain free access to voice communication services, enhancing their ability to maintain relationships and access legal counsel.
  • Families and Support Networks: Families of incarcerated individuals will no longer face financial strain related to communication costs, potentially improving family dynamics and support systems.
  • Correctional Facilities: The bill may require adjustments in how correctional facilities manage and provide communication services, potentially impacting their operational budgets and contracts with service providers.

Legislative Actions

  • February 3, 2025: The bill was introduced and referred to the Committee on Crime Victims, Crime and Correction.
  • February 25, 2025: The bill was reported and committed to the Finance Committee for further consideration.

Related Bills

  • S 6276 (prior-session)
  • S 3512 (prior-session)
  • S 1942 (prior-session)
  • A 2266 (companion bill)

Conclusion

Bill S 4160 represents a significant step towards reforming communication access for incarcerated individuals by eliminating costs associated with voice communication services. If passed, it could have a profound impact on the lives of those incarcerated and their families, fostering better connections and support systems. The bill is currently under review by the Finance Committee following its initial reporting.

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

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