NEWS Federal Communications Commission 445 12 th 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). News Media Information 202 / 418-0500 Internet: http://www.fcc.gov TTY: 1-888-835-5322 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: NEWS MEDIA CONTACT: August 1, 2014 Bartees Cox, 202-418-0509 Email: bartees.cox@fcc.gov FCC CHAIRMAN TOM WHEELER STATEMENT ON SIGNING OF CELL PHONE UNLOCKING BILL WASHINGTON- “Today, President Obama signed legislation that gives consumers the freedom to switch between wireless carriers without having to purchase a new cellphone, allowing them to choose the mobile service plan that fits their specific needs and budget. This new law is a positive development that addresses the issues that triggered unlocking concerns in the first place. When the wireless industry worked with the FCC on a voluntary agreement to unlock devices when consumers’ contracts have been fulfilled, they took an important step forward. The President’s signature today makes greater consumer choice the law of the land.” - FCC – News and information about the Federal Communications Commission is available at www.fcc.gov