WI AB731

Requires free weekly telecommunications access for inmates in state prisons, county jails, and juveniles in correctional/detention facilities: at least 180 minutes of phone calls, 60 minutes of video calls, and 100 text messages

Prohibits charging inmates, juveniles, or recipients for telecommunications services and prohibits using these services to replace in-person visitation

Appropriates $4,980,500 in FY 2025-26 and $14,374,600 in FY 2026-27 to DOC for inmate and juvenile telecommunications services and county reimbursements

Requires DOC to contract for telecommunications services statewide and allows counties to join the contract at no cost; counties not joining must submit reports explaining why and can request reimbursement from DOC

Phases in minimum access requirements over 18 months, starting with existing service levels and gradually increasing to full minimums by month 18