Bill Introduced to Give ACC Wireless Oversight

The Business Journal
Mike Sunnucks

Legislation has been put forward at the state Capitol giving state regulators more oversight over the wireless telecommunications industry.

State Sens. Gabrielle Giffords, D-Tucson, and John Huppenthal, R-Chandler/Ahwatukee, are pushing a bill aimed at helping consumers having problems with their wireless and cellular telephone bills.

The measure gives the Arizona Corporation Commission (which regulates land-line telecommunications and other industries) the power to oversee the cellular and wireless sectors also.

The ACC regulatory board would then be able to enact regulations to protect consumers from unwanted charges and fees.

State Attorney General Terry Goddard voiced support for the bill on Monday.