Shaheen Joins Legislation to Crack Down on Surprise Telephone, Cable and Internet Fees

**TRUE Fees Act requires providers to be upfront about total cost of services and empowers customers to end their contracts free of charge if prices are increased**

(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) announced today that she’ll join Senator Ed Markey (D-MA) on the Truth-In-Billing, Remedies, and User Empowerment over Fees (‘TRUE Fees’) Act, legislation that requires phone, cable and internet providers to include all charges in the prices they advertise for services. The TRUE Fees Act also requires phone, cable and internet providers to allow customers to end their contract without early termination fees if their provider increases prices; prevents hikes on equipment fees unless providers improve equipment; and prohibits forced arbitration clauses for wrongful billing errors. Congresswoman Anna Eshoo (D-CA) has introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives.

“Customers are sick and tired of being caught off guard by their monthly telephone, cable and internet service bills,” said Shaheen. “This shouldn’t be complicated -- Granite Staters should know upfront what their costs will be and should be able to shop elsewhere for service when prices are increased. It’s wrong to lock a customer into a service plan that grows more and more expensive without any recourse. Congress should pass this important legislation that ensures transparency and puts the customer first.”

Text of the legislation can be found HERE. 

The TRUE Fees Act has been endorsed by the National Consumer Law Center, on behalf of its low-income clients; Consumer Reports; Consumer Federation of America; and Public Knowledge.