On the other hand, denying them access to an affordable communication line to their families -- in an age when such services are cheaper than water,† for the general population -- is arguably cruel and unusual punishment.<p>And to the prisoners&#x27; families -- it&#x27;s most especially cruel.<p>† Okay, the calls need monitoring, which increases the cost somewhat.  But not by much, and not nearly in proportion to the rates they&#x27;re currently being gouged for, in some states.