JustLeadershipUSA Applauds the FCC’s Move to Reduce Rates on Voice and Video Calls in Carceral Facilities

Today, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) took steps to put money back in the pockets of individuals who are incarcerated and their loved ones by implementing the 2022 Martha Wright-Reed Act. Today’s decision on the Report and Order, entitled, “Bringing Common Sense & Fairness to Correctional Facility Phone Rates,” will cut rates on video calls in carceral facilities by more than half and lower rate caps for voice calls.

In response to today’s decision, JustLeadershipUSA (JLUSA) President and CEO DeAnna Hoskins issued the following statement: “The implementation of the Martha Wright-Reed Act is a game-changer for increasing accessibility to connection and support for the millions of individuals who are incarcerated. This Act addresses a critical economic issue caused by our criminal legal system by reining in predatory voice and video call rates for individuals who are incarcerated across the nation.

The ability for incarcerated individuals to communicate with their support system provides them with a lifeline …

“As one of the country’s only national criminal legal reform organizations that is both founded by and led by formerly incarcerated people, we know all-too-well the impact these costs have by creating financial burdens and perpetuating cycles of poverty. As institutions continue to grapple with understaffing, often these exorbitant costs are the difference between maintaining connection with support systems, in the wake of in-person visitation being limited or eliminated.

“The ability for incarcerated individuals to communicate with their support system provides them with a lifeline, eliminating financial barriers to communication. Individuals who are incarcerated are empowered to maintain vital family ties and community connection, which have been proven to support successful reintegration into society. We commend the FCC for their leadership and dedication in making this legislation a reality.”

Learn more about how we are elevating issues impacting the 70+ million justice-impacted Americans at the Federal level through the JustUS Coordinating Council at justuscc.org.

(Photo above of Martha Wright-Reed, seated)