The US industry trade body, the Cellular Telecommunications & Internet Association (CTIA), in partnership with the nation's wireless carriers, has unveiled a 10-part Consumer Code that enumerates voluntary industry principles, disclosures and practices. The voluntary Consumer Code is designed to help consumers make informed choices when purchasing wireless services, better understand their wireless services and rate plans, and ensure that wireless carriers continue to meet their needs.
"The wireless industry has always been different than other telecomm sectors. It is fast moving, nimble, competitive and proactive. It highly values and vigorously competes for customers," said Tom Wheeler, President and CEO of CTIA. "This voluntary Consumer Code will help ensure that wireless consumers continue to be the best informed, most knowledgeable consumers in the telecommunications sector."
"Competition has always served wireless consumers better than costly regulations. Wireless complaint rates are lower than those of more regulated telecom sectors. So, dragging wireless down with heavy regulations is simply old monopolistic think, and only hurts consumers," added Wheeler. "Wireless has always moved rapidly to address market opportunities and concerns. Once again, we're leading the way with this voluntary Consumer Code and Seal of Wireless Quality/Consumer Information."
The code has been announced just a few days before California's Public Utility Commission publishes a report on cellphone quality in the state and details proposed new laws to regulate the industry."
Posted to the site on 10th September 2003
Posted to: www.cellular-news.com/story/9690.php