FCC Considers Proposal to Block Inmate Cellphone Use

Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Brendan Carr announced a potential shift in regulations that could impact state and local prisons across the United States. In a statement made Wednesday, he revealed plans for the FCC to vote on a new order next month. This order would allow correctional facilities to disrupt communications from unauthorized cellphones within their premises.

The FCC’s move aims to target cellphones that are reportedly used by inmates to engage in illegal activities. According to the agency, these devices enable prisoners to coordinate crimes such as ordering hits and managing gang operations from behind bars.

However, the proposal has sparked concern among advocates for prison communication rights. They argue that cellphones serve as a crucial link for inmates to maintain contact with family members. This contact is often lost due to the high costs and privacy issues associated with facility-provided communication options.

The decision to proceed with this plan will be made during a vote scheduled by the FCC next month.