Guide to New Low Rates and Consumer Protections for Incarcerated People’s Communications Services

The United Church of Christ Media Justice Ministry is proud to share this important consumer guide for incarcerated people, their loved ones, clergy and other advocates. As of April 1, 2025, most of the country should be benefiting from new federal protections, and this guide will help consumers ensure they are receiving those protections. The Federal Communications Commission’s July 2024 Order implementing the Martha Wright-Reed Just and Reasonable Communications Act brings down costs and increases consumer protections and disclosures for voice calling and video communications for people who are incarcerated and their loved ones. The new regulations substantially lower per-minute rate caps for audio communication services and establish rate caps for video communication services. These measures apply to communications services for all individuals who are incarcerated, regardless of the length of their detention. The requirements apply to all immigration detention facilities as well as to traditional jails and prisons.