Senators Amy Klobuchar and Jay Rockefeller announced the Cell Phone Consumer Empowerment Act of 2007, a new bill designed to break the outrageous and outdated rules governing the wireless industry.

What consumers can get out of this new bill:

1. Detailed data on coverage areas and dropped calls provided to consumers before committing to a long-term contract

2. Pro-rated early termination fees for those who exit their contract after thirty days

3. The ability to exit a contract within thirty days without a termination fee when wireless service is found to be unsatisfactory

4. Transparency in contracts and billing, including explanations of taxes and fees.

5. FCC to study the practice of "locking" phones - making them exclusive to one service provider and requiring consumers to purchase a new phone when changing carriers.




In the game of chess, the opening moves are very important to control the center of the board. In like manner, this new bill is a bold move to challenge the dominance of the big wireless players. However, do not expect these guys to take this hit sitting down. After all, they are well-oiled machines powered with strong clout on the inside.

"The rules governing our wireless industry are a relic of the 1980's, when cell phones were a luxury item that fit in a briefcase instead of a pocket. Early termination fees are a family budget-buster; families should be able to terminate service without outrageous fees; know if their cell phone will work on their drives and in their home and office; and understand what to expect in their monthly bills once you pile on charges and fees. It's a simple matter of fairness," said Klobuchar in a press release.

Hopefully these new changes might help improve customer service, foster competitiveness, and stop subscribers from faking deaths just to get rid of their contracts.