Federal Prison Contraband Cell Phone Penalty and State Incentive Act of 2025

This Act addresses the problem of contraband cell phones in prisons through two constitutionally sound mechanisms. First, it amends Title 18 of the United States Code to increase federal criminal penalties for knowingly providing or attempting to provide a cell phone to an individual incarcerated in a federal prison. The penalty shall be a fine under Title 18, imprisonment for not more than 5 years, or both. This provision applies only to federal prisons, which are under direct federal jurisdiction. Second, to encourage states to adopt similar measures, the Act establishes a grant program administered by the Department of Justice. Any state that enacts a law substantially similar to the federal penalty and demonstrates enforcement will be eligible for a grant of up to $10 million per year, to be used for prison security technology and training. Grants are conditioned on annual reporting and compliance audits. Funds not used as required shall be returned to the Treasury. The Act appropriates $50 million per year for five years from general revenue for the grant program. The Bureau of Prisons and the DOJ Office of Inspector General shall oversee implementation and enforcement. The Act sunsets after five years, with a report to Congress on effectiveness and state participation.