OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. (AP) — The Federal Communications Commission has changed inmate phone call rates, lowering the cost of keeping in touch for the loved one of inmates serving time in Oklahoma's prisons and jails.
The Oklahoman reports the FCC announced on Oct. 22 that a 15-minute phone call will cost $1.65, 40 percent lower than the $3 rate that was previously in place. FCC commissioner Mignon Clyburn says the agency's action on the phone service is integral to ongoing discussions about criminal justice reform.
Oklahoma State Corrections Department spokeswoman Terri Watkins says it's too early to know the full impact the new rates will have. She says the department generated $3 million last year from inmate phone calls.
Oklahoma County Sheriff John Whetsel says the changes have usurped the Oklahoma Corporation Commission's authority and may be unconstitutional.