FCC Chair proposes prohibiting video service ‘junk fees’

Federal Communications Commission Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel announced a proposal to eliminate video service junk fee billing practices by cable operators and direct broadcast satellite service providers and study their impact on consumer choices. The proposal will be voted on during the December 13 Open Meeting. “No one wants to pay junk fees for something they don’t want or can’t use. When companies charge customers early termination fees, it limits their freedom to choose the service they want. In an increasingly competitive media market, we should make it easier for Americans to use their purchasing power to promote innovation and expand competition within the industry,” said Chairwoman Rosenworcel. Cable and video service operators include Comcast (CMCSA), Charter (CHTR), Dish (DISH) and Altice USA (ATUS).