The Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) is rolling out a new pilot program that provides no-cost phone calls to individuals in custody at correctional facilities statewide.
Effective November 3, each individual in custody will receive 775 free domestic phone call minutes per month — roughly $6.20 in value — to connect with loved ones.
“Phone calls and real-time conversations are essential for maintaining meaningful connections with loved ones,” said IDOC Director Latoya Hughes. “Through the Voices of Connections pilot program, we’re ensuring that individuals in custody have consistent access to free phone minutes, making it easier to engage in the conversations that support emotional well-being, strengthen relationships, and promote rehabilitation.”
The initiative builds upon the rollout of a phone dialer application on ICSolutions tablets, allowing individuals to make calls directly from their own tablet when connected to Wi-Fi.
First Lady of Illinois MK Pritzker’s office collaborated with IDOC to advance the program, emphasizing the importance of maintaining family relationships, particularly for incarcerated parents. “Consistent communication is essential to successful reunification,” Pritzker said. “Ensuring regular access to contact families for all individuals in custody is imperative, as robust communication channels are foundational to rebuilding familial ties.”
The pilot allows international calls, although those calls reduce the total monthly minutes due to higher rates. Unused minutes will not roll over or transfer between individuals, but IDOC can redistribute unspent minutes as needed. Usage and costs will be monitored throughout the pilot, which is scheduled to run through June 2026, with the possibility of extension if funding allows.
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