What's New
ConnPIRG is leading a coalition and consumer groups, citizens and legislators
working to enact a Cell Phone User's Bill of Rights for Connecticut. Consumers
are relying more on cell phones, and according to the Better Business Bureau,
wireless service providers have become the 2nd most complained about industry
in America after Auto Dealers. The Cellphone User's Bill of Rights will protect
users' privacy, require cell phone companies to disclose contract terms clearly
and make it easier to solve billing problems.
Brief Summary
The use of wireless communications has skyrocketed over the past few years,
from 24 million users in 1994 to 170 million today (1 in 2 Americans). Along
with the growth in the industry has come an increase in consumer complaints.
In fact, complaints to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) increased
almost 40 percent between 2002 and 2003, outpacing the 13 percent growth in
wireless users.
The problems consumers experience
with wireless service have taken on increasing importance as more consumers
begin to use their cell phones as substitutes for traditional landline phones.
Unlike traditional phone service, wireless service is largely unregulated. Unfortunately,
cell phone companies often make it difficult and expensive for consumers to
shop around for the best deal and service.
To fix these problems, ConnPIRG
is advocating a Cell Phone User's Bill of Rights to provide better disclosure
regarding contract terms and wireless coverage, recourse to resolve billing
errors, a risk-free trial period to test a phone before a cancellation policy
kicks in, and privacy protection.
The Cell Phone User's Bill of Rights:
- Protects Consumer Privacy
by preventing Wireless Service Providers from making cell phone numbers public
without permission.
- Strengthens Consumers rights by making cell phone contracts more clear, and
allow consumers a 30 day trial period when starting a new service contract
- Requires Cell Phone bills be clearly organized and provide consumers with
better recourse for addressing complaints.
