Mah Protects Consumers from Hidden Fees

CHICAGO, Ill. – State Rep. Theresa Mah, D-Chicago, passed legislation out of committee that would protect consumers and close loopholes that allow cable and internet providers to impose endless fees for rental of their electronic equipment.

“Cable providers are taking advantage of their customers by imposing these outrageous fees,” said Mah. “The charges are disproportionate to the actual cost of the routers and modems they provide.”

Mah’s legislation, House Bill 3503, would cap the cost of equipment rental. The bill would also require cable providers to give proper notice to renters of their equipment about recurring fees and ensure consumers of the right to discontinue the rental.

“This legislation will promote transparency. Companies should be upfront and honest about the fees they charge their customers,” said Mah. “My bill will save money for consumers and prevent cable and internet providers from adding hidden costs to bills that are already high enough as they are.”

Mah is serving her first term in the Illinois General Assembly as State Representative of the 2nd District, which includes the Chicago neighborhoods of Pilsen, Chinatown, Bridgeport, McKinley Park, Brighton Park and Back of the Yards.