The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation CDCR has partnered with, the California Department of Technology CDT , to enter into a contract to enhance communications, technology access, and family connections for the incarcerated population in state prisons.
CDCR knows how important it is for incarcerated people to stay connected with their loved ones. The Department offers ample opportunities for connection through in-person and video visits, letters, electronic messaging, and video and audio calls. As of January 1, , all telephone audio calls made from an incarcerated person in a California state prison will be free of charge to the incarcerated person and their friends and families. The enhanced communication project aims to strengthen the bonds between the incarcerated population with their families and communities.
Jails and prisons across the nation are seeing the benefits of utilizing electronic devices as they provide incarcerated individuals access to rehabilitative program content, important departmental updates, and positive leisure-time activities, such as knowledge-based games and books. These devices also allow these activities to be tracked and monitored for safety and security. Tablets are provided at no cost to incarcerated people, although certain premium features, such as streaming music services, may incur charges.
Learn more about ConnectNetwork and how to get started. On Feb. To ensure continuity of service, CDCR has maintained an emergency interim contract with ViaPath Technologies, allowing all current telephone and tablet services to remain fully operational during the transition period. Under the new contract, CDCR will begin transitioning to Securus Technologies while retaining the existing ViaPath tablets until the transition is complete. A phased approach will be taken to minimize disruptions, and any potential service interruptions will be communicated in advance.
CDCR is working closely with the Securus to ensure a seamless transition, including the development of a comprehensive support plan. More details regarding features, services, and deployment timelines will be shared as they become available.
