Know Your Cell Phone Coverage

The AARP is praising a new bill, chiefly sponsored by State Senator John Flanagan and Manhattan Assemblyman Daniel O'Donnell that would require cell phone companies to provide more detailed coverage maps, including where the e-911 function works during an emergency, and allow people to cancel their contract fifteen days after receiving their first bill without having to pay hefty penalties.

The bill would also force cell phone companies to disclose all hidden fees and surcharges in a clear fashion. As you can imagine, the phone companies are eager to see the bill defeated.

"People are buying cell phones with the blind expectation that their phone will work when it's needed the most. Consumers deserve to know exactly where their phone will work, especially in an emergency," said Lois Aronstein, AARP New York State Director. "This bill is a move in the right direction for New York consumers."