Bill would force firms to disclose data on 4G wireless service

Sens. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) and Al Franken (D-Minn.) introduced a bill Thursday that would force wireless carriers to disclose accurate data on the speed, reliability and pricing of their 4G wireless data service.

The Next Generation Wireless Disclosure Act mirrors legislation introduced by Rep. Anna Eshoo (D-Calif.) in June and would require that providers provide information on the reliability and speed of their networks at the point of sale as well as in all marketing and billing materials.

“When consumers purchase a 4G wireless plan, they have the right to know exactly what they’re getting for their money," Klobuchar said. "This legislation will help ensure that wireless companies are honest about their product’s capabilities so consumers can get a fair deal.”

"Wireless providers need to make sure their customers can count on the speed, reliability, and the price they were promised when they signed up. And if they can't fulfill their promise, they need to be held accountable," Franken added.

The senators note there is currently no standard definition for what constitutes 4G or fourth-generation wireless service, allowing the four major wireless providers to market several different technologies at different speeds as "4G."

The legislation would also task the Federal Communications Commission with evaluating the speed and price of the 4G data service provided by the top 10 U.S. wireless carriers so customers have access to side-by-side comparison in their service area.

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