Limits use of restrictions on telephone calls as discipline measure during incarceration.

This bill (S 3660) limits how New Jersey correctional facilities can suspend incarcerated people’s phone privileges as a disciplinary measure. It requires facilities to allow at least one phone call every two weeks during a suspension, notify emergency contacts about the suspension, and prohibit suspensions exceeding 90 consecutive days or 180 days total per year. The bill also bans additional suspensions for those in Restorative Housing Units and prohibits phone restrictions during the final 60 days before release, with prior sanctions automatically lifted during that period. These changes implement recommendations from the 2024 Corrections Ombudsperson report to maintain communication access for incarcerated individuals.