END CELLS Act

The END CELLS Act would amend the Communications Act of 1934 to add a new provision (Section 512) that makes it illegal to provide or possess wireless communications devices in detention facilities. The bill targets three acts: (a) giving a wireless device to someone in a detention facility, (b) knowingly facilitating the introduction of such a device into a facility, and (c) a detainee possessing a wireless device in violation of applicable law. Penalties include civil forfeiture (up to $50,000 per violation or per day, with a $1,000,000 cap for a single continuing act) and criminal fines (up to $50,000 per violation), with the option for imprisonment as allowed under existing law. The act clarifies it does not prohibit law enforcement activities or state enforcement, and it defines “detention facility” and “wireless device” broadly to cover devices that enable radio communications or components enabling network connections. The new rules would apply to conduct occurring after enactment.