Hundreds of callers urge lawmakers not to cut free prison e‑messaging from budget

Speakers at the Appropriations Committee public hearing mounted a sustained and emotional opposition to a line in the governor’s proposed FY26–27 budget that would eliminate state support for free electronic messaging and subsidized tablets for people in Connecticut prisons.

Formerly incarcerated witnesses, family members and correctional staff described how e‑messaging shortens geographic and scheduling barriers, helps children maintain contact with parents, supports reentry planning and — in several witnesses’ accounts — reduces violence and the risk of recidivism.

"Texting is everything," said Jeffrey Perry, a formerly incarcerated man who testified he saw e‑messaging become a “connection for individuals to be able to…be connected with their families.” He said telephone calls are not an adequate substitute because younger family members and children rely on text communication.

Why it matters: Many witnesses argued that the state’s proposed savings would amount to a cut to rehabilitation and public safety. Several speakers also criticized the role of private telecom vendors and urged the state either to negotiate lower fees or to provide an in‑house solution rather than shifting costs onto low‑income families.

Key testimony and examples

- Family members and former inmates gave consistent accounts that e‑messaging is a lifeline for children and caregivers who cannot travel for in‑person visits. Tracy Bernardi…