(1) The [Department of Corrections] governing authority
of a correctional institution may direct that calls made by
an inmate shall be collect calls.
(2) The [Department of Corrections] governing authority
of a correctional institution may provide guidelines for
alternative payment methods for telephone calls made by
inmates, provided that the alternative methods are consistent
with security needs, orderly operation of the prison and the
public interest.
(b.1) Contracts for service.--
(1) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, all
contracts between correctional institutions and
telecommunication service providers shall be subject to or
comply with the procurement provisions under 62 Pa.C.S. § 512
(relating to competitive sealed bidding) and the following:
(i) When evaluating proposals from telecommunication
service providers, the governing authority of the
correctional institution shall seek to obtain quality
service for the lowest cost to the billed party.
(ii) The correctional institution shall not accept
commissions or other revenue in excess of its reasonable
operating costs for establishing and administering the
telecommunications systems.
(2) Correctional institutions may not impose a surcharge
or other fees for telephone usage by inmates in excess of the
charges imposed by the telecommunication service provider.
(3) Telecommunication service providers may not impose a
surcharge or fee to the billed party in addition to the
charges described in the contract for service established
with the correctional institution or its governing authority.
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