GTL Files Notice of Appeal on FCC Order On Reconsideration for ICS Phone Call Rates
Price cap shortcomings and FCC's jurisdictional oversteps require court challenge
RESTON, Va., Sept. 13, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- GTL, the leading provider of correctional technology solutions and an innovator in payment services solutions for government, today announced it will appeal and seek a stay of new rate caps contained in the Federal Communication Commission's (FCC) Order on Reconsideration (Recon Order) that was published today in the Federal Register. GTL will seek relief from the U.S. Court of Appeals to prevent further upheaval in the inmate services market while the court considers arguments from providers, law enforcement and nine state attorneys general that have questioned the fairness of the caps and challenged the FCC's authority to regulate intrastate inmate calling services (ICS) rates.
GTL believes the FCC has set rate caps at levels that fail to fully account for the costs of administering ICS in our nation's prisons and jails, and the agency has improperly preempted state, county and municipal entities in areas of ratemaking and correctional security without clear authority to do so.
"We are committed to market-based reforms that result in lower rates for inmates, families and friends, but those reforms must account for the true costs of providing ICS and give deference to state and local government on issues of intrastate rates and security," said GTL CEO Brian Oliver. "After nearly 10 years of regulatory engagement, three attempts at rulemaking, three years of litigation and three previous judicial stays of nearly identical rules, it's time for the FCC to stop moving the goal posts and let the court decide these fundamental issues," Oliver said.
About GTL
GTL is the leading provider of integrated correctional technology solutions, delivering financial value, security, and ease of operation to our customers through visionary products and solutions at the forefront of corrections innovation. As a trusted correctional industry leader, GTL provides service to approximately fifty percent of inmates nationwide, including service to 33 state departments of corrections, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and 32 of the largest city/county facilities. GTL is headquartered in Reston, Virginia, with more than 10 regional offices across the country. To find out more about GTL, please visit our website www.gtl.net. You can also view us on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn.
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SOURCE GTL
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