Systems for Controlling Contraband Phones Aren't Cheap, GTL Says
Global Tel*Link representatives laid out potential problems of managed access systems (MAS) in prisons, in a meeting with Nicholas Degani, aide to FCC Commissioner Ajit Pai. The systems are one response to combating contraband cellphones, a Pai priority (see 1604070055).…
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Managed access systems are “plagued by an overly complicated and lengthy process for licensing to operate in a non-commercial setting, and staggering costs to deploy and operate,” GTL said. “Depending on the size of the facility, the number of sites within a facility complex, the characterization of the surrounding geography from a topographical and urban versus rural standpoint, the architectural structure of the facility, and the ongoing system maintenance and software upgrades, costs to deploy can start at $1.5 million or more per customer. This does not include any of the regulatory costs for authority to operate such systems.” Funding is critical, the company said. “GTL suggested possible models for funding such as the E911 cost recovery mechanism or direct state efforts like those undertaken by the State of Maryland to deploy MAS at two facilities,” said the filing in docket 13-111.