This bill would require New York to provide free calls for people incarcerated in jails and prisons. It forbids state and local agencies from generating revenue through communications services, and if services other than phone calls (including video calls and email) are provided to incarcerated people, they must be provided at no cost. The bill specifies that incarcerated people must be allowed access to voice communication services for a minimum of ninety minutes per day. Finally, the bill stipulates that the obligation to provide communication services at no cost may not be used to limit, replace, or prevent in-person visitation.
You can read the full text of the legislation here.
Primary sponsor(s): Walter T. Mosley, Dan Quart, Jo Anne Simon
Bill number: Assembly Bill A7658A
Status: Pending