Massachusetts Senate Bill S1494

Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/16/23
• Refer: 2/16/23

Caption

To keep families connected

Impact

In terms of state laws, S1494 will amend Chapter 127 of the General Laws by including provisions that prevent any financial incentives tied to communication service contracts from influencing pricing structures for such services. All contracts that previously included commissions or financial benefits for law enforcement will be renegotiated to eliminate these clauses. This is intended to reduce costs for inmates and their families, ensuring that communication services are accessible and affordable, thereby fostering a more supportive environment for rehabilitation and community ties.

Summary

S1494, titled 'An Act to Keep Families Connected', focuses on enhancing communication access for individuals incarcerated in state correctional facilities, state prisons, and county correctional facilities. The bill mandates that voice communication services be provided free of charge to both the person initiating and the person receiving the communication, ensuring that these services are available at all times unless they interfere with facility operations. This is aimed at fostering family connections during incarceration, which can have significant implications for rehabilitation and reintegration into society.

Contention

Points of contention surrounding S1494 may revolve around the elimination of incentives for law enforcement agencies tied to communication contracts. While supporters of the bill argue that it is a necessary move for justice reform and reducing burdens on families, opponents might raise concerns that it could negatively impact contracts and services that are beneficial for safety and security in correctional facilities. Moreover, ensuring adequate infrastructure for communication service delivery—especially through modern means such as tablets—poses logistical challenges that might spark debate among stakeholders in the corrections system.