TRENTON, NJ – A groundbreaking bill is set to revolutionize communication for incarcerated individuals in New Jersey by mandating free access to telephone calls, video calls, and electronic mail. This initiative, applicable to adult and juvenile correctional facilities across the state, aims to alleviate the financial strain on families of incarcerated persons.
Currently, incarcerated individuals face charges up to 11 cents per minute for domestic phone calls, with limited access to video calls and electronic mail, often at additional costs. The proposed bill, however, includes an appropriation of funds necessary for its implementation, as determined by the Commissioner of Corrections and the Executive Director of the Juvenile Justice Commission.
The bill’s proponents argue that maintaining strong family and community connections during incarceration is crucial for successful reentry into society. They point to studies indicating that incarcerated individuals with robust support systems are less likely to reoffend upon release. Furthermore, the sponsor highlights the financial burden on families, citing the $1.4 billion prison telecommunication industry’s alleged profiteering practices.
The legislation aims to follow the lead of states like New York City, Connecticut, California, Minnesota, Massachusetts, and Colorado, which have recently made telecommunication services free for incarcerated persons. This move is seen as a significant step towards reducing recidivism and supporting the rehabilitation process by strengthening familial ties.