For years, families with incarcerated loved ones faced an impossible choice: pay outrageous phone fees or lose precious time with someone they love. Now, several states are proving there is a better way.
California, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New York, and the federal prison system have finally made prison phone calls free – and the results are powerful. Families have saved hundreds of millions of dollars, incarcerated people are staying connected to loved ones, and research shows stronger family contact can support rehabilitation and reduce recidivism. This is hopeful news.
Sign the petition to urge states across the country to make prison phone calls free and help families stay connected.
For many families, phone calls are the only lifeline. Yet for decades, private prison telecom companies profited from some of the highest phone rates imaginable, forcing families who are often already struggling financially to pay enormous fees just to stay in touch.
Research shows regular family contact can improve mental health, reduce anxiety and depression, improve behavior inside facilities, and lower the chances someone will return to prison after release.
Visits can be expensive, time-consuming, or impossible, especially for children, elderly relatives, or families living far away. But regular conversations matter.
People behind bars say free calls have helped them reconnect with children, support aging parents, grieve loved ones, and prepare for life after release. Parents can help with homework, talk children through hard days, and simply remain present in each other's lives. And the benefits extend far beyond families.
Keeping families connected and together helps people successfully reenter society, strengthens communities, and creates safer outcomes for everyone.
Sign the petition now to urge states nationwide to make prison phone calls free and ensure families can stay connected without financial hardship.
