House Bill 3118, introduced in the Oregon State Legislature on February 19, 2025, aims to enhance communication access for individuals in custody by mandating that the Department of Corrections (DOC) provide communication services at no cost. The bill, sponsored by a bipartisan group of legislators, seeks to eliminate financial barriers that currently restrict inmates' ability to connect with family and friends.

The key provisions of House Bill 3118 require the DOC to contract with a third-party provider to deliver communication services without any direct or indirect costs to inmates or their contacts. Notably, the bill prohibits the DOC from receiving any financial or in-kind compensation related to these services, ensuring that the focus remains on accessibility rather than profit.

Supporters of the bill argue that improved communication can significantly benefit inmates' mental health and rehabilitation prospects, fostering stronger family ties and reducing recidivism rates. They emphasize that access to communication is a fundamental right that should not be contingent on an inmate's financial situation.

However, the bill has sparked debates regarding its funding and implementation. Critics express concerns about the potential costs to taxpayers and the logistics of establishing a reliable communication system. Some lawmakers question whether the state can effectively manage such a program without incurring additional expenses.

House Bill 3118 also includes provisions for accountability, requiring the DOC to submit a progress report on the implementation of the bill by February 1, 2026, and a biennial report on relevant data to the Legislative Assembly.

The implications of this legislation could be significant, as it addresses long-standing issues of communication access within the correctional system. If passed, it may set a precedent for similar initiatives in other states, potentially reshaping how correctional facilities approach inmate communication and rehabilitation.

As the bill moves through the legislative process, stakeholders will be closely monitoring discussions and amendments, with the potential for further adjustments to address concerns raised by both supporters and opponents.