NEWS
Federal Communications Commission
445 12th Street, S.W.
Washington, D. C.  20554
This is an unofficial announcement of Commission action.  Release of the full text of a Commission order constitutes official action.
See MCI v. FCC. 515 F 2d 385 (D.C. Circ 1974).
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Internet: http://www.fcc.gov
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For Immediate Release                                      News Media Contact: 
August 27, 2009                                                 Rosemary Kimball at (202) 418-0511
e-mail: rosemary.kimball@fcc.gov
FCC SEEKS COMMENT ON ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITIES TO PROTECT AND 
EMPOWER CONSUMERS IN COMMUNICATIONS MARKETPLACE
Washington, DC -- The FCC has issued a Notice of Inquiry on whether there are 
additional opportunities to protect and empower American consumers by ensuring sufficient 
access to relevant information about communications services.
As communications technologies and services become more essential, and the 
communications market more complex, information is key to consumer protection and 
empowerment. The Commission seeks comment from communications service providers, 
academic researchers, consumer groups and third-party analysts on how best to ensure 
consumers have the information they need to make informed decisions in the communications 
marketplace. 
The Commission’s approach to information disclosure issues has traditionally focused 
on the formatting of consumer bills.  This is relevant only after a consumer has already selected a 
service provider, and has been restricted to wireline voice and wireless services. Today’s Notice 
asks questions about the information available to consumers at each stage of the purchasing 
process:  (1) choosing a provider, (2) choosing a service plan, (3) managing use of the service 
plan, and (4) deciding whether and when to switch an existing provider or plan for all 
communications services, including wireline voice and wireless services, as well as broadband 
and subscription video (cable and satellite).   
This Notice also seeks particular comment on cost-effective best practices in 
information disclosure from within the communications sector – as well as familiar examples for 
other areas, such as nutrition labeling on food products, fuel efficiency for automobiles, energy 
efficiency for household appliances, and rates and fees for credit cards.  Comments will be due 
45 days after release of the Notice of Inquiry and replies will be due 15 days thereafter.
Action by the Commission, August 27, 2009, by Notice of Inquiry (FCC 09-68).  
Chairman Genachowski, Commissioners Copps, McDowell, Clyburn and Baker with Chairman 
Genachowski, Commissioners Copps, McDowell, Clyburn and Baker issuing separate 
statements.
- FCC -
CG Docket  No. 09-158; CC Docket No. 98-170; WC Docket No. 04-36
CGB Contacts: Richard D. Smith at (717) 338-2797 and Erica H. McMahon at (202) 418-0346