FCC Seeks Comment on New Law’s Impact on Accessible Incarcerated People’s Communications Services
On March 17, 2023, the FCC released a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking and Order related to implementation of the Martha Wright-Reed Just and Reasonable Communications Act of 2022 (Act), which directs the Commission to adopt just and reasonable rates and charges for incarcerated people’s audio and video communications services. On April 10, 2023, the FCC released a Public Notice to announce the comment due dates.
The Notice seeks comment on, among other things, the extent to which the Act expands the FCC’s ability to ensure that any audio and video communications services used by incarcerated people are accessible to and usable by people with disabilities. The Notice also requests comment generally on any needed changes to the FCC rules on access to advanced communications services and equipment by people with disabilities to implement the amended definition of “advanced communications services” adopted by the Act.
Interested parties may file comments by accessing the FCC’s Electronic Comment Filing System at https://www.fcc.gov/ecfs/filings. All filings about the Notice must reference WC Docket Nos. 23-62 and 12-375. People with disabilities who need assistance to file comments online may request assistance by email to FCC504@fcc.gov.
Link to Notice of Proposed Rulemaking and Order:
https://www.fcc.gov/document/fcc-acts-ensure-reasonable-calling-rates-incarcerated-people
Link to the Public Notice:
https://www.fcc.gov/document/wireline-competition-bureau-announces-comment-dates-ipcs-nprm
For general information about communications services for incarcerated individuals, please visit the FCC’s webpage: https://www.fcc.gov/consumers/guides/telephone-service-incarcerated-individuals. For further information on the carceral communications item, please contact Peter Bean, Pricing Policy Division, Wireline Competition Bureau, at 202-418-0786 or peter.bean@fcc.gov. For information on the accessibility issues raised in the item, please contact Michael Scott, Disability Rights Office, Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau, at (202) 418-1264 or Michael.Scott@fcc.gov. Individuals who use videophones and are fluent in American Sign Language (ASL) may call the FCC’s ASL Consumer Support Line at (844) 432-2275 (videophone).
