This article was published on April 4, 2016

The FCC’s new Web pricing labels ain’t pretty but could save you some cash


U.S. Capitol In Washington

WASHINGTON – JUNE 5: The U.S. Capitol is shown June 5, 2003 in Washington, DC. Both houses of the U.S. Congress, the U.S. Senate and the U.S. House of Representatives meet in the Capitol. (Photo by Stefan Zaklin/Getty Images)

Image Credits Credit: Getty Images

The Federal Communications Commission has unveiled a new labelling system for desktop and mobile internet providers in the US that it says will help offer transparency for consumers and drive competition.

But… They ain’t exactly pretty.

The labels should help you make better price and service comparisons by detailing all fees and charges so you don’t get screwed over by service providers.

Unfortunately, the labelling isn’t legally required, so some companies could sidestep the process, but the Obama administration has said those that don’t comply could be subject to government investigation.

Debra Berlyn, who represents the National Consumers League as chair of the FCC’s Consumer Advisory Committee, said that through a collaborative process across government: “The disclosures released today are far easier on the eyes.”

Who knows what v.0 looked like?!

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