Correctional Billing Services (1-800-844-6591) has a web site which contains quite a bit of information and all their contact phone numbers and e-mail addresses. Some of their other services can be handled online as well.

http://www.correctionalbillingservices.com/

One of the, errrr, tricks this company is using is, they imply that one must have an account (this happens when you call them) when in fact you do not have to have an account. The requirement to have an account may be something built into a contract CBS has with a particular state's Correctional System, or a phone company that doesn't bill their charges, or pay monies collected back to CBS quickly enough.

The Michigan Public Service Commission (1-800-292-9555 to file a complaint) is looking into whether CBS has perpetrated a FRAUD with the CBS handling of these alleged required accounts in the state of Michigan only. Other states' Public Service Commissions (or equivalents) may also do the same if facts are brought to their attention.

Recently, when there were major area code changes in Michigan, Indiana, and a few other states, the computer program used by CBS to change area codes for each states' inmate phone lists, did not change the AREA CODE for any out of state phone number. CBS runs this program individually for each state, and out of state numbers could no longer be called.

CURE National (Citizens United for the Rehabilitation of Errants) has been engaged in a national program to reduce prison phone charges (eTc Phone Campaign); they have had some progress and some legislatures have instituted bills to make changes. You can reach them at this web site:

http://www.curenational.org/

When you get to it procede to their page on the phone campaign.

Have a Great Day & A Better Tomorrow
eadvocate