Rhode Island 2023 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H6180

Introduced
3/22/23  

Caption

Relating To State Affairs And Government-- Corrections Department

Impact

Should H6180 be enacted, it would fundamentally alter the financial dynamics surrounding inmate communication. The bill seeks to eliminate any financial burden on inmates and their families by prohibiting additional charges for calls made from correctional facilities. It would also require correctional facilities to ensure a sufficient number of operational communication devices are available, thus improving accessibility to communication for those held in these facilities. These changes are expected to not only ease the financial strain on inmate families but also foster better communication, which can aid in reducing recidivism rates.

Summary

House Bill H6180 proposes significant changes to the Rhode Island corrections system, specifically in the area of telephone services for inmates. The bill aims to repeal the existing legal provisions that permit the Department of Corrections to charge inmates for making phone calls. Instead, H6180 mandates that all communication services provided to inmates, including voice communication, video communication, and electronic messaging, are to be offered free of charge. This is intended to enhance the ability of incarcerated individuals to maintain contact with their families and legal representatives, which is often seen as crucial for rehabilitation and reintegration into society.

Contention

Although the bill is largely regarded as a positive step towards criminal justice reform, there are potential points of contention that may arise during discussions. Critics might express concerns regarding how the changes in communication policies could impact prison management and the potential for misuse of free communication services. Stakeholders may discuss whether certain regulations are necessary to balance the interests of security within the facilities while ensuring that inmates have meaningful access to communication. This aspect of the bill could lead to debates about the appropriate level of oversight and the nature of correspondence that should be encouraged or restricted.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI S0406

Relating To State Affairs And Government-- Corrections Department

RI H5350

Repeals 42-56-38.1 and requires the department of corrections to provide free communication services to inmates and juveniles held in residential placement or detention centers and requires that those facilities provide in-person contact visits.

RI S2233

Repeals 42-56-38.1 and requires the department of corrections to provide free communication services to inmates and juveniles held in residential placement or detention centers and requires that those facilities provide in-person contact visits.

RI H7525

Repeals 42-56-38.1 and requires the department of corrections to provide free communication services to inmates and juveniles held in residential placement or detention centers and requires that those facilities provide in-person contact visits.

RI SB1008

Corrections: communications.

RI S0128

Repeals 42-56-38.1 and requires the DOC to provide free communication services to inmates and juveniles held in residential placement or detention centers and requires that those facilities provide in-person contact visits.

RI S0373

Relating To State Affairs And Government-- Corrections Department

RI H7740

Relating To State Affairs And Government-- Corrections Department

RI H5127

Relating To State Affairs And Government-- Corrections Department

RI H1337

Department of Corrections

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