What is the allowed method for making long-distance calls by inmates?

Inmates are allowed to make long-distance calls, but they must do so at their own expense. This means that any calls made outside the local area incur a charge that the inmate is responsible for paying. This policy is in place to ensure that the inmates have the ability to communicate with family and friends while incarcerated, but it also reflects the principle that such communication services should not be funded by the department itself or considered a free service. Furthermore, offering long-distance calls as a free service would place a financial burden on the department, which typically operates under a limited budget. By allowing inmates to pay for these calls, the system maintains a balance between facilitating communication and managing costs effectively.