MN SF4388

State adult and juvenile correctional facilities must provide free voice communication services to confined persons, with optional supplementation of video calls and electronic messaging.

Facilities cannot charge confined persons or individuals receiving communications for voice or other communication services, except agencies may collect commissions on contracts entered before January 1, 2023.

Facilities must maintain in-person visitation programs and cannot use communication services to replace or count toward visitation limits, except during declared emergencies or natural disasters.

Agencies operating facilities must consolidate communication contracts through the Office of State Procurement to maximize purchasing power.

Departments must annually report to legislature on communication contract status, rates charged, spending of appropriated funds, and usage data including monthly call and message volume by January 15/March 15 deadlines.

Free communication services requirements apply to local correctional facilities (jails, workhouses, lockups) and facilities under the Commissioner of Human Services control.