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Bill

A 2266

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

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn and 25 co-sponsors

Bill A 2266 ensures free voice communication for incarcerated individuals, enhancing connections with families and supporting rehabilitation by removing financial barriers.

REFERRED TO CORRECTION
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 2266

Summary of Bill A 2266

Bill Information

  • Bill Number: A 2266
  • Title: Provides voice communication service to incarcerated people at no cost; repealer
  • Status: Referred to Correction
  • Introduced: January 16, 2025
  • Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill A 2266 aims to ensure that incarcerated individuals have access to voice communication services without any associated costs. The intent is to facilitate communication between incarcerated people and their families, friends, and legal representatives, thereby promoting social connections and supporting rehabilitation efforts.

Key Provisions

  • Free Voice Communication Services: The bill mandates that all voice communication services provided to incarcerated individuals be offered at no cost. This includes phone calls made from correctional facilities.
  • Repealer Clause: The bill includes a provision to repeal any existing laws or regulations that impose costs on incarcerated individuals for voice communication services. This is intended to eliminate any financial barriers that currently exist.

Impact

  • Incarcerated Individuals: The primary beneficiaries of this legislation will be incarcerated people who will no longer have to pay for phone calls, thus enhancing their ability to maintain relationships with the outside world.
  • Families and Friends: Families and friends of incarcerated individuals will also benefit from the reduced financial burden associated with maintaining communication, which can be particularly significant for low-income families.
  • Correctional Facilities: The bill may require correctional facilities to adjust their current contracts with telecommunications providers to comply with the new requirement of offering free services.

Procedural Aspects

  • Current Status: As of January 16, 2025, the bill has been referred to the Correction Committee for further consideration.
  • Related Legislation: This bill is related to several prior-session bills (A 7658, A 3096, A 2164) and has a companion bill in the Senate (S 4160), indicating ongoing legislative interest in this issue.

Conclusion

Bill A 2266 represents a significant step toward improving the communication rights of incarcerated individuals by eliminating costs associated with voice communication services. If passed, it could have a profound impact on the lives of those affected, fostering better connections with their communities and supporting their reintegration into society.

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

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