H8117

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.

Introduced·2/27/26
Introduced Text

Rhode Island H8117 repeals a law allowing the Department of Corrections to charge inmates for phone calls and mandates free communication services.

Rhode Island H8117 repeals Section 42-56-38.1 of the General Laws, which previously allowed the Department of Corrections to charge inmates for phone calls. The bill requires the Department of Corrections to provide free communication services, including voice, video, and electronic mail, to inmates and juveniles in residential placement or detention centers. Additionally, it mandates that these facilities provide in-person contact visits. The changes take effect upon the bill's passage.

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Where it stands

Current
Judiciary Committee
Next
Committee decision

Sponsors

D
1
0
Democratic CaucusRepublican Caucus

Calendar

Mar 24

12:00 AM

House Judiciary Hearing

History

Mar 24

House

Committee recommended measure be held for further study

Mar 20

House

Scheduled for hearing and/or consideration (03/24/2026)

Feb 27

House

Introduced, referred to House Judiciary