The FCC delays enforcement of prison call rate caps

Chalk one up for prison telecoms — and against inmates' family members — courtesy of Trump's FCC. On Monday, the agency said (via The Verge) it would delay enforcement of a 2024 action aimed at capping prison phone call fees. The rules are now scheduled to take effect in April 2027.

FCC Commissioner Anna M. Gomez criticized the agency's move in a statement. "Today, the FCC made the indefensible decision to ignore both the law and the will of Congress," she wrote.

Prison phone call fees vary dramatically by state. Last year, the FCC said rates for large jails could reach as high as $11.35 for a 15-minute audio call. Meanwhile, family members calling smaller jails could pay as much as $12.10 for the same period. The rates in other states are much lower, and some have passed laws ...