This campaign is to stop the extortion of high phone call charges and to seek legislative change or legal relief in Illinois.

The injustice of the collect-call phone system within the Illinois Department of Corrections is a leading issue with family support groups, prison-reform organizations, legal representatives and other advocates that communicate with Illinois inmates.

Several states across the country have been making great strides in lowering the fees for the calling systems in their correctional facilities. Illinois should be a frontrunner in telephone reform, as it has one of the largest inmate populations in the US.

Many organizations have expressed their support and desire to join this campaign (see links to supporters).

As ICTJ progresses many other groups are expected to sign on as co-sponsors and supporting agencies. We welcome and encourage all to join this struggle. This is an issue that affects everyone dealing with IDOC inmates. Together we can make a difference. To join the campaign as an active supporter or supportive friend please contact: campaign@illinoistelephonejustice.com

The staggering telephone charges by Illinois’ exclusive prison telephone provider, Consolidated Public Services, are a burden for many. The least able to afford these exorbitant fees are inmate family members who already endure tremendous pressures.

The Federal Bureau of Prisons has recently adopted an inexpensive yet security-minded calling system that could be instituted by individual states. There are many low-cost companies that provide prison telephone systems.

The petition portion of this campaign has already kicked-off. Links to the on-line petition and printable petition are available on the Home Page. We request that all groups interested in helping further this campaign please collect signatures within your organizations, groups and families. The paper petitions should be sent to ICTJ for compiling.

As the campaign progresses state legislators will be asked to introduce legislation that will end the outrageous kick-back commissions paid to the IDOC for its exclusive contract, high per-minute rates and expensive connection fees. If necessary, legal action may be incorporated.

Please join us to end this injustice. Loved ones and legal counsels of inmates should not be forced to endure these outrageous telephone rates any longer.