Correctional Visits and Phone Calls

Staying in contact with loved ones and support systems is essential for any person impacted by incarceration, whether they themselves are incarcerated in New York City jails or state prison or they are loved ones who are supporting from afar. Visiting correctional facilities is inherently difficult and confusing which only exacerbates the already existing challenges of maintaining connections with those inside.

During the 2019-2020 legislative session, BDS supported the passage of S724-A which requires the Department of Correction and Community Supervision to place incarcerated parents in facilities closest to their children’s homes. BDS continues to urge the passage of A4881 which would bring back the free bus service to correctional facilities. We will continue to fight to increase accessibility of visits for people who are incarcerated and their loved ones.