ACTIVE CAMPAIGN
Hawai’i
Across Hawai‘i, families and community advocates are organizing to pass legislation that would make prison and jail phone calls free. Together, we are working to remove financial barriers and protect the fundamental right to stay connected with loved ones.
RESOURCES
Connect Hawai‘i Families: Pass SB 782 and HB 676
Families in Hawai‘i spend more than $1 million each year to stay connected with incarcerated loved ones — a steady revenue stream for a private prison telecom vendor. The result is clear:
One in three families goes into debt to afford phone and video calls.
87% of those carrying this burden are women — largely Black and brown women.
Many incarcerated people are sent thousands of miles to the continent, separating families by an ocean, making phone and video calls the primary way children stay connected to parents.
Strong family connections improve facility safety, support rehabilitation, and increase successful reentry.
We should be encouraging communication and connecting families — not exploiting it.
SB 782 and HB 676 would make prison communication free for incarcerated people and their families, including those housed out of state. The bills require a modest budget appropriation. With community support, Hawai‘i can fund this practical, evidence-based step to strengthen families and promote public safety.
Momentum is growing nationwide to make prison communication free. California, Colorado, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Minnesota have already made the change, demonstrating what’s possible — and Hawai‘i can lead alongside them.
Send an email to your elected officials using the form above, and share this page on social media to encourage others to take action.
PARTNERS
Is your campaign for free prison or jail communication not listed? Reach out to us at info@worthrises.org to be added.