Massachusetts House Bill H4052

Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 8/10/23
• Refer: 8/10/23
• Chaptered: 11/15/23
• Passed: 11/15/23

Caption

Providing for unlimited free phone calls to incarcerated individuals

Impact

The implications of HB 4052 are significant in terms of both state laws and the correctional system. By making phone calls free, this bill seeks to reduce the financial burden on families and friends of incarcerated individuals who often face high costs for communication. This measure is framed as part of broader justice reform initiatives focused on improving the welfare of those incarcerated and facilitating their communication with the outside world, which is crucial for maintaining relationships and supporting reintegration into society post-release.

Summary

House Bill 4052, titled 'An Act providing for unlimited free phone calls to incarcerated individuals', aims to amend Chapter 127 of the General Laws in Massachusetts. The bill mandates that the Massachusetts Department of Correction and local sheriffs provide free voice communication services to individuals currently committed to state prisons, county correctional facilities, or any other correctional institution. The provision of these services is meant to include not just phone calls, but potentially other forms of communication such as video and electronic messaging, ensuring both the initiating and receiving parties incur no cost.

Contention

However, the bill has been subject to discussions regarding its funding and infrastructure implications for state facilities. Concerns have been raised about whether the Department of Correction can sustain the necessary technological upgrades and maintenance without diverting funds from other critical areas. Additionally, while many support the concept of free communication as a right for incarcerated individuals, opposition may emerge around the practicality of implementation and potential impacts on existing contracts with service providers. The bill does not affect current contracts on implementation but suggests a consolidation approach for future negotiations, which might face scrutiny from various stakeholders.