FCC Commissioner Mignon Clyburn released an official statement yesterday reprimanding Verizon Wireless for the "troubling" raise in ETF prices and other matters.
She finds Verizon's claims of justification "unsatisfying" and a "tenuous rationale for ETFs." She especially takes issue with the fact that ETF prices are higher in part to cover advertising and store costs. We couldn't agree with her more.
Clyburn also addresses another troubling matter, calling Verizon out for deceptively charging small fees to customers who launch the mobile browser.
Clyburn concludes by asserting that the matter will continue to be investigated in 2010.
“These issues cannot be ignored. Wireless communications are an essential part of our lives, linking us to our places of business, our communities, and our loved ones. The bottom line is that wireless companies can truly earn their desired long-term commitments from consumers by focusing primarily on developing innovative products, maintaining affordable prices, and providing excellent customer service. I look forward to exploring this issue in greater depth with my colleagues in the New Year."
We're impressed by the FCC's commitment to the consumer, and we hope to see Verizon respond by abandoning their hiked-up ETFs. You can read Clyburn's full statement below.