Jail Cuts Inmate Calls Over FCC Rate Cap

An Arkansas sheriff, infuriated by the FCC’s mandate to lower inmate phone call rates, has decided to eliminate the service altogether, sparking controversy.

Sheriff John Montgomery of Baxter County, Arkansas, is protesting the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) new regulations by discontinuing all inmate phone calls starting March 30, 2025. This decision stems from the FCC’s order requiring smaller jails to cap the cost of inmate phone calls at $1.35 for a 15-minute call, a significant reduction from previous rates that could reach upwards of $12.10.

The FCC’s move aims to eliminate excessive charges and “kickbacks,” where vendors prioritized payments to jails over affordable rates for inmates and their families. Commissioner Geoffrey Starks criticized the old system, highlighting the financial burden on families trying to stay connected with incarcerated loved ones.

Sheriff Montgomery argues that the reduced rates make providing phone services “infeasible,” despite the fact that the county found a way to fund a jail expansion in 2018 through a temporary sales tax. He claims the FCC’s regulations are to blame for the hardship this decision will impose on families.

Interestingly, FCC Chair Brendan Carr, a Republican, supported the rate caps, acknowledging the “excessive” costs of inmate phone calls and the “market failure” of the private operators. He emphasized the importance of inmate communication for mental health and reducing recidivism, citing studies that support this connection.

While Sheriff Montgomery plans to increase in-person visiting hours to compensate, the loss of affordable phone calls presents a significant challenge for families. The situation raises questions about balancing cost concerns with the crucial role of communication in rehabilitation and family support.

The move has drawn criticism, with many questioning whether the decision punishes inmates and their families for a dispute between the sheriff’s office and the federal government.

Key takeaways:

• Arkansas jail cancels inmate phone calls in response to FCC rate caps.
• Sheriff cites “infeasibility” due to lower rates mandated by the FCC.
• FCC Chair supported rate caps, citing benefits of inmate communication.

Tags: FCC, inmate phone calls, Arkansas, jail, rates, regulation