Prison Reform: Congress Weighs Game-Changing Cellphone Jamming Bill

Senator Tom Cotton from Arkansas and Representative David Kustoff from Tennessee have renewed their efforts to curb the use of contraband cellphones in prisons by proposing legislation for jamming devices. The lawmakers plan to reintroduce identical bills in Congress, aiming to authorize state and federal correctional facilities to disrupt wireless communications within their walls.

Under current federal law, the use of cellphone jamming technology is prohibited due to potential interference with emergency services and public safety communication. Cotton, during a press conference at the U.S. Capitol, emphasized the dangers contraband cellphones pose, stating, “Within prison walls, contraband cellphones are dangerous weapons.” He criticized the inaction surrounding this issue, highlighting how incarcerated individuals can still orchestrate criminal activities from behind bars.

To address concerns about emergency calls, Cotton assured that the proposed jamming systems would not affect law enforcement communications. He indicated that state officials would have the authority to decide the application of jamming devices in their facilities. The bill stipulates that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) must allow correctional facilities to utilize these systems without impediment.

The use of jamming tools would be restricted to specific areas within prisons, targeting housing units. Cotton stated that they plan to collaborate with the FCC to ensure careful implementation of the technology, aiming to mitigate any unintended consequences for the broader community.

Kustoff echoed Cotton’s sentiments, asserting that prisoners should not be able to orchestrate criminal activities like ordering assaults or trafficking drugs from within prison walls. He underscored the safety risks posed by inmate-led criminal networks that extend beyond the prison gates, jeopardizing both staff and community members.

A 2020 survey by the Urban Institute revealed that over 25,000 contraband cellphones were confiscated in state correctional facilities across 20 states. In light of this data, a bipartisan group of attorneys general from states including Georgia, North Carolina, and Tennessee have expressed their support for the proposed legislation, urging Congress to act swiftly.

Alongside the initial supporters, numerous attorneys general from 30 states and territories have joined the call for this measure. Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin, present at the press conference, described the legislation as a “fundamentally common sense” approach, citing compelling examples of dangers associated with contraband cellphones, including a reported escape plot by a convicted rapist using such a device.

The FCC has yet to respond to inquiries regarding the implications of this proposed legislation and its potential effects on safety and communication protocols within prisons.