This past Thursday brought good news from the Senate to cellphone users everywhere. The Unlocking Consumer Choice and Wireless Competition Act, introduced by Patrick Leahy, D-VT, has passed through the Judiciary Committee and is due to be voted on in the full Senate shortly.
“Consumers should be able to use their existing cell phones when they move their service to a new wireless provider,” Leahy said. “With today’s strong bipartisan vote in the Judiciary Committee, I hope the full Senate can soon take up this important legislation that supports consumer rights.”
The bill arose after the Library of Congress ceased making an exception for phones to allow users to transfer phones to other carriers in 2012. The UCCWCA also directs the Library to consider other devices, like tablets, to have the eligibility for unlocking as well.
“The Big Four” did not immediately comment on the recent developments, but AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, and Sprint stand to lose some money at the expense of consumers’ savings.
What do you think about the bill? Are you planning on taking advantage of your new-found wireless freedom? Leave a comment below to share your opinion.
Source: TechCrunch
Come comment on this article: Cellphone Unlocking Bill Moves to Senate Floor
Cellphone Unlocking Bill Moves to Senate Floor
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