The FCC has issued a Notice of Inquiry asking for more information about communications services.
The Commission is looking for comments from communications service providers, academic researchers, consumer groups and third-party analysts on how best to ensure consumers have the information they need to make informed decisions in the communications marketplace.
Now is good time for your group to voice your ideas and/or complaints to the FCC.
The Commission's approach to information disclosure issues has
traditionally focused on the formatting of consumer bills. This is
relevant only after a consumer has already selected a service provider,
and has been restricted to wireline voice and wireless services.
They want information available to consumers at each stage of the purchasing process:
(1) choosing a provider
(2) choosing a service plan
(3) managing use of the service plan,
(4) deciding whether and when to switch an existing provider or plan
for all communications services, including wireline voice and wireless
services, as well as broadband and subscription video (cable and
satellite).
This Notice also seeks particular comment on cost-effective
best practices in information disclosure from within the communications
sector - as well as familiar examples for other areas, such as
nutrition labeling on food products, fuel efficiency for automobiles,
energy efficiency for household appliances, and rates and fees for
credit cards.
Comments will be due 45 days after release of the Notice of Inquiry and replies will be due 15 days thereafter.