Wynn Consumer Protection Amendment Adopted Measure Would Protect Consumer Rights

Wynn Consumer Protection Amendment Adopted Measure Would Protect Consumer Rights

Today, the Energy and Commerce Committee unanimously adopted Congressman Wynn's consumer protection amendment to the telecommunications overhaul bill. The underlying bill would create competition in the area of video service by granting phone companies a national franchise to enter the video service market.

Specifically, the Wynn amendment would protect the rights of cities and consumers by allowing the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) and cities to enforce certification standards for new entrants, such as phone companies, into the video market. Wynn's amendment also adds new, mandatory rules requiring the FCC to determine customer service standards for billing, billing disputes and standards for quality of service. Most importantly, the amendment requires the FCC to assess fines and penalties for non-compliance by service providers. Such fines would be made payable to affected local franchise areas or affected customers.

" I am pleased that the committee accepted my proposals to increase consumer protections in this bill. One of the most frequent concerns voiced by citizens has been the dramatic rise in cable television bills and sub par service. Market competition is the only way to effectively reduce costs and improve service. Now all video service providers will have to adhere to the same regulations," said Wynn.

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