Inmate phone companies are largely unregulated, charging as much as $14 a minute, as well as charging the families of often disadvantaged inmates outrageous fees. Current FCC commissioner Clyburn has worked tirelessly to cap inmate calling services rates and has capped interstate rates (calls from one state to another). However, this does not help inmates calling their families within the same state (the vast majority of inmates). We are now in a situation where long distance calls can cost $3.00 but a local (unregulated) call will cost over $20 due to the outrageous kickbacks the jails receive.
Please support Ms. Clyburn in her efforts to ensure all inmate calling services are just and fair. The hearing is October 22 and makes a difference in countless people's lives.