SB 6352-S.E - DIGEST

(DIGEST AS ENACTED)

Finds that the current telephone service for inmate calls from department of corrections facilities is based on outdated technology that provides neither the most secure nor the most accountable system available and is provided at a high cost to inmate families.

Finds that the current statute prevents the secretary of corrections from using systems that provide greater security, more inmate accountability, and lower costs.

Declares an intent to remove this barrier while retaining the intent of the statute to provide safe, accountable, and affordable telephone services.

Requires that all personal calls made by offenders shall be made using a calling system approved by the secretary of corrections which is at least as secure as the system it replaces. In approving one or more calling systems, the secretary of corrections shall consider the safety of the public, the ability to reduce telephone fraud, and the ability of offender families to select a low-cost option.