A Federal Communications Commission proposal to allow state and local prisons to jam contraband cell phones is facing opposition from wireless carriers who argue it would disrupt lawful communications. The proposal, championed by FCC Chairman Brendan Carr and supported by Republican attorneys general and prison phone companies, aims to curb illegal activity within correctional facilities.

Wireless lobby group CTIA argued in December 29 comments that jamming technology blocks all communications, including legitimate ones like 911 calls. The CTIA also questioned the FCC's authority to permit jamming. Members AT&T and Verizon voiced similar concerns in separate comments, with AT&T stating that the proposed legal framework is based on a flawed factual premise.

The Communications Act prohibits interference with authorized radio communications. Carr's plan attempts to circumvent this by proposing to de-authorize certain communications. Groups dedicated to Wi-Fi and GPS also raised concerns in comments to the FCC.

The debate highlights the tension between security concerns within prisons and the public's reliance on cellular communication. Proponents of jamming argue it is a necessary tool to prevent inmates from coordinating criminal activities, intimidating witnesses, and accessing illegal content. Opponents contend that jamming poses a risk to public safety by disrupting emergency communications and infringing on the rights of individuals outside the prison walls.

The FCC is currently reviewing the comments and considering the next steps in the rulemaking process. The agency must weigh the potential benefits of jamming against the potential harms to public safety and the communications ecosystem. The decision could have significant implications for prison security, wireless communication, and the FCC's regulatory authority.