Yesterday, the Federal Communication Commission approved a set of proposed rules that will require satellite and cable TV providers to clearly list all prices, including fees, for their TV service as they advertised. This means no longer will cable TV companies be able to hide the cost of cable TV by using fees like Broadcast TV fee, HD Technology fee,s and the like.
The rules strive to cull what the FCC calls a “misleading practice” of listing additional costs as a tax, fee, or surcharge. The new pricing format will require all costs and fees to be clearly shown so customers can make an informed decision when choosing a plan or signing up for a promotional offer. The rules aim to reduce confusion for customers while increasing competitive pricing between providers.
The rules, first proposed by FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel last March, will also aid consumers when comparing plans with competitors, including streaming services.
“Working families deserve and expect transparency, but cable or satellite TV providers too often hide the real price of their service behind deceptive junk fees,” said Rosenworcel. “We’re putting an end to this form of price masking.”
Now that these rules have been passed, it will be a bit before they take effect. Though cable TV companies are likey to try to go to court to stop this new rule. Already some companies have called this new rule misguided.
Please follow us on Facebook and X for more news, tips, and reviews. Need cord cutting tech support? Join our Cord Cutting Tech Support Facebook Group for help.