Did you know... that you need to pay for the phone call to be connected with incarcerated people?
 
Overview
Incarcerated individuals in Washington face significant barriers to maintaining connections with their families and loved ones. One of the largest obstacles is the high cost of phone calls. Studies have shown that regular contact with family supports rehabilitation, reduces recidivism, and strengthens community ties. Yet, for many families, the financial burden of these calls is too heavy to bear.

Incarcerated individuals are overwhelmingly from marginalized communities—including Black, Indigenous, people of color, and low-income families—who already bear the weight of systemic inequities. The cost of phone calls only deepens this burden.

 
Where Are We Right Now?
The Connecting Families Act (Senate Bill 6021) was discussed during a Senate hearing by the Committee on Ways and Means in February 2024, but no action was taken. We urge Washington legislators and senators to support and advance this bill, which would make phone calls free for people incarcerated in Washington state prisons.

 
Why This Matters
Communication is a basic human right and a crucial form of emotional support. For incarcerated people, it is often the only way to stay connected with their children, parents, and community. Making phone calls free of charge would:

1. Reduce Financial Strain: Many families of incarcerated individuals are already struggling financially. High phone rates create an additional burden.
2. Support Mental Health: Regular contact with loved ones improves mental well-being, reducing stress and anxiety.
3. Lower Recidivism Rates: Studies show that strong family connections significantly reduce the chances of reoffending after release.
4. Foster Community Reintegration: Consistent communication helps maintain relationships, making the transition back to society smoother.

You might think this issue doesn’t affect you—but when we turn a blind eye to the struggles of incarcerated individuals, communities suffer. Social support networks weaken, and community strength collapses. These are people who will eventually return to our communities. Their successful reintegration benefits us all.

 
Which State Will Be Next?
States like California, Connecticut, and Massachusetts have already made prison phone calls free, proving that it’s possible to prioritize families and rehabilitation over corporate profit. Washington should be next.

 
What Can We Do?
Currently, Securus, the private company contracted by the Washington State Department of Corrections (WASDOC), collects millions in phone call fees from incarcerated individuals and their families, turning communication into a luxury instead of a right. By passing the Connecting Families Act, Washington has the opportunity to take back control from private prison contractors, advance racial and economic justice, and ensure that no child or loved one is cut off from their family simply because they can’t afford a phone call.

 
Make Your Voice Heard
Every signature counts. Every voice matters. Stand with us as we demand free phone calls for incarcerated individuals in Washington. Let's break down barriers, strengthen family ties, and support community reintegration. Add your name to the petition and tell Washington lawmakers that communication is a right—not a privilege.

🖊️ Sign now and be part of the change.

* Photo by John Moore/Getty Images. Retrieved from Washington State Standard: https://washingtonstatestandard.com/2024/01/22/wa-lawmakers-consider-free-prison-phone-calls-to-help-keep-families-connected/