Securus Seeks Video Call Billing Waiver on Per-Minute Billing Requirement
Securus wants the FCC to grant a one-year waiver of a requirement that inmate calling providers bill for video on a per-minute basis, according to a partially redacted petition posted Monday in docket 23-62. The requirement -- part of the…
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FCC’s implementation of the Martha Wright-Reed Act -- took effect Nov. 19, and Securus is seeking a waiver until Nov. 19, 2025. Securus offers inmate calls over three platforms, none of which can accommodate per-minute billing, the petition said. Without a waiver, Securus could face breach of contract claims if it stops providing video calls, or it would have to offer video IPCS “for free and at a substantial loss,” Securus said. In addition, Securus has sought a court-ordered stay of provisions of the FCC order and filed in support of recon petitions (see 2411260044) against the order. “The loss of video calling services -- a real possibility absent a waiver -- would harm incarcerated persons and their family and friends,” Securus said. In contrast, allowing Securus the additional time it needs to comply with the rule “would not cause harm,” the petition said. There are indications that some prisons have already ceased offering video calling due to the order. For example, a notice on the Colorado Department of Corrections website said video visits on Securus devices are suspended indefinitely due to the FCC rule change. “During this suspension, Securus will be working on developing a new platform to comply with the updated regulations surrounding video visitation,” said the notice. “We understand this may be frustrating for residents, their friends, and loved ones, and we apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.”