S.2984

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·3/4/26
Introduced Text

Rhode Island S2984 repeals a provision allowing the Department of Corrections to charge inmates for phone calls and mandates free communication.

Rhode Island S2984 repeals Section 42-56-38.1, which allowed the Department of Corrections to charge inmates for phone calls. The bill requires the department to provide free communication services to inmates and juveniles held in residential placement or detention centers. It also mandates that these facilities provide in-person contact visits. The act includes provisions for maintaining a minimum ratio of operable voice communication devices to inmates and prohibits any revenue from communication services.

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  • Core Provisions
  • Implementation
  • Impact
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  • Critical Issues

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Where it stands

Current
Judiciary Committee
Next
Session adjourned — paused until it reconvenes

Sponsors

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9
0
Democratic CaucusRepublican Caucus

Roll Call Votes

Senate Committee on Judiciary: Be held for further study

10 Yea

DDDDDDDDRD

0 Nay

Calendar

May 12

12:00 AM

Senate Judiciary Hearing

History

May 12

Senate

Committee recommended measure be held for further study

May 8

Senate

Scheduled for hearing and/or consideration (05/12/2026)

Mar 4

Senate

Introduced, referred to Senate Judiciary