WASHINGTON, Sept. 9, 2003
Wireless Carriers Adopt Guidelines
Voluntary Code Aims To Improve Cell Phone Service
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(AP)
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The Cellular Telecommunications and Internet Association, an industry group, said its 10-point code is designed to give consumers more information about wireless services and rate plans.
CTIA President Tom Wheeler said the guidelines show the industry can police itself so government intervention is not needed.
"Dragging wireless down with heavy regulations is simply old monopolistic think, and only hurts consumers," he said.
The code includes providing new customers with a minimum 14-day trial period for new service and allowing people to end service if there are significant changes to their contracts.
Some consumer advocates were skeptical of the new code.
"Instead of taking concrete steps to ensure that consumers receive quality service at a reasonable price, cell phone companies offer a 2 1/2-page set of vague promises that can't be enforced," said Janee Briesemeister, an analyst with Consumers Union, publisher of Consumer Reports magazine. "Why should we trust the companies to police themselves when they haven't in the past?"
The code includes these promises from wireless companies:
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