Dear Commissioners:
Don't prevent states from fixing my cell phone problems. I
am writing to oppose CG Docket No. 04-208 and WT Docket No.
05-194, which will unjustly take away the authority of
states to tackle problems with cell phone service,
including abusive cancellation penalties. Worse, the
proposal will put in place a weak set of cell phone
company-endorsed rules that offer no improvements in
service or enforcement.
It's time to adopt policies that force cell phone companies
to improve the level of service they provide to consumers.
It's not enough that we have to buy new phones when
switching carriers. Cell phone contracts are loaded with
legalese and "mumbo-jumbo", which encourages them not to be
read. Furthermore, as long as you pay your singup fee,
they're more than happy to sign u up, and tell you about
the hidden charges later. I had to sign a 2 yr contract for
my price plan. Why? So that my carrier knows I'm stuck
with them for the next 2 yrs!!
Although CG Docket No. 04-208 purports to address consumer
frustration with confusing cell phone bills, hidden fees
and misleading advertising, the proposal does little for
consumers. In the name of helping us, the agency is
proposing to block states from passing their own
pro-consumer laws. As bad, WT Docket No. 05-194 would bar
state courts from enforcing state law when it comes to
unfair and abusive cell phone contracts. That's going too
far.
States are responding to consumer complaints. Don't stop
them! And don't give in to adopting weak, industry-drafted
rules in their place. The FCC should stand up to the cell
phone industry, and respect states rights and strong
consumer protections.
Sincerely,
Nathan Kempe