By Bob Katzen
The House 29-125, rejected an amendment that would strike a budget section that provides $35 million to subsidize free phone calls for prisoners; and instead use the $35 million to fund additional unrestricted local aid for cities and towns.
“At a time when many cities and towns are struggling to balance their budgets, the House Ways and Means Committee inexplicably opted to fund unrestricted local aid at a level that is $25 million below the governor’s proposal,” said House GOP minority Leader Rep. Brad Jones (R-North Reading). “Communities rely on this funding to support a variety of municipal services, including teachers, police, firefighters, libraries and senior centers. The $35 million allocated for unlimited free prisoner phone calls represents a 75 percent increase in the program’s costs, which is unacceptable at a time when revenues are declining and the governor has implemented millions of dollars in … cuts. The state budget is all about setting priorities and boosting local aid represents a more prudent use of our limited state resources.”
Amendment opponents say telephone and video calls are a lifeline for people locked in prisons and their families. They said these calls help families keep in touch and can help incarcerated people succeed when they are released from prison into the community.
Rep. Mike Day (D-Stoneham), the House chair of the Judiciary Committee, did not respond to repeated requests by Beacon Hill Roll Call asking him to explain his opposition to the amendment.
(A “Yes” vote is for the amendment providing $35 million in local aid to cities and towns. A “No” vote is against it.)
Rep. Christine Barber No Rep. Mike Connolly No Rep. Paul Donato No Rep. Erika Uyterhoeven No