Colo. Free Inmate Calls Bill Passes Legislature

The Colorado legislature passed a bill to make inmate calls free at state prisons and juvenile detention facilities starting July 1, 2025. The Senate voted 23-12 Wednesday for HB-1133. The House passed the measure last month (see 2304240053). If Gov. Jared Polis (D) signs the bill, Colorado will be the third state to make prison calls free, after Connecticut and California. “Colorado joins a growing list of cities and states that have put families first and make prison and jail communication free,” said Worth Rises Executive Director Bianca Tylek. “There are a handful of other states still considering this legislation this year, and we expect more in the future.” In the same news release, sponsor Rep. Judy Amabile (D) said the bill "is going to help people on the inside stay connected with their loved ones and communities.”