Panel passes bill to bar inmates from using contraband phones to access social media

Senator Murdoch presented Senate Bill 1923 as a constituent request after a constituent reported inmates using contraband phones to contact victims. Murdoch described a victim who received friend requests from inmates and said the bill targets contraband cell‑phone and modified devices that allow social‑media access.

Members asked whether state‑issued tablets already block social media; Murdoch and DOC representatives said tablets supplied by the Department of Corrections are typically configured to block social media but contraband phones and modified devices remain a problem. Senator Brooks asked whether the bill is necessary if DOC already blocks social media; the sponsor and others said enforcement of contraband rules remains incomplete and the bill would direct DOC rulemaking and reinforce prohibitions.

An amendment proposing added confinement for offenders who access social media was briefly offered and then withdrawn after senators raised questions about germane authority and the bill’s title. Murdoch said he would work with Senator Brooks and DOC on enforcement options. The committee recorded 7 ayes and 1 nay and declared SB 1923 passed out of committee.