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Bill

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Bill

A 1889

Requires State and private correctional facilities to allow inmates to make telephone and video calls at no cost to inmate or other party.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Reginald Atkins and 5 co-sponsors

New Jersey bill requires state and private prisons to provide inmates free phone and video calls, eliminating current per-call fees charged to incarcerated people and callers.

Introduced in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly Public Safety and Preparedness Committee
#communicatio #corrections
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Bill Summary · A 1889

Legislative bill overview

Bill A 1889 mandates that both state and privately-operated correctional facilities in New Jersey must provide free telephone and video calling services to inmates, eliminating costs for both the incarcerated person and the party they contact. The bill removes financial barriers that currently allow facilities to charge fees for these communications.

Why is this important

Currently, inmates and their families often face substantial costs for prison communications—fees that can reach $5-15 per call or more, creating significant financial burdens on low-income families. This bill directly affects an estimated 20,000+ New Jersey inmates and thousands of families, while also impacting the revenue models of correctional facilities and private prison operators.

Potential points of contention

  • Facility costs and funding: Removing call fees eliminates a significant revenue stream for correctional facilities; the bill doesn't specify how lost revenue will be replaced, raising questions about operational funding and potential service cuts elsewhere
  • Private prison economics: Private correctional companies may face reduced profitability, potentially affecting contract negotiations and facility operations; may face legal challenges regarding contractual terms
  • Call volume and security concerns: Free services could dramatically increase call volume, raising infrastructure capacity questions and potential security monitoring challenges for facilities managing communications

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

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