Rural Cellular Association Files FCC Petition Demanding More Choices for Consumers

Rural Cellular Association Files FCC Petition Demanding More Choices for
Consumers
Group Challenges Cell Phone Exclusivity Arrangements and Supports Consumer
Access, Choice and Competition

MCLEAN, Va., May 20 /PRNewswire/ -- The Rural Cellular Association (RCA),
a group of more than 80 small and rural wireless providers, filed a petition
today with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to investigate and, as
necessary, adopt rules to prohibit exclusivity arrangements between wireless
carriers and cell phone manufacturers. The petition asks the FCC to prohibit
unfair arrangements between carriers and manufacturers that stifle consumer
choice, decrease competition and violate the Communications Act.
Due to exclusivity arrangements, many Americans are unable to use some of
today's most popular cell phones. Those affected usually live in rural areas
where service from some wireless carriers is not available. Examples of some
of the best-selling handsets still unavailable to many Americans include
AT&T's Apple iPhone and Verizon's LG Voyager(TM).
"It is important that all Americans have equal access to the latest
technology, including wireless devices, regardless of where they live or which
carrier provides the service," said David Nace, counsel to RCA. "RCA is
standing up for consumer's rights and putting an end to exclusivity
arrangements that create another 'digital divide' between urban and rural
America."
The petition also contends that consumers who are able to purchase and use
these popular phones are often forced to pay a premium price for their desired
handset and required to change carriers.
The petition can be accessed at www.rca-usa.org.
About RCA
RCA is an association representing the interests of more than 80 small and
rural wireless licensees providing commercial services to subscribers
throughout the nation. RCA's wireless carriers operate in rural markets and
in a few small metropolitan areas. No member has as many as one million
customers, and all but two of RCA's members serve fewer than 500,000
customers.
SOURCE Rural Cellular Association

David Nace of Rural Cellular Association, +1-703-584-8661, dnace@fcclaw.com