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Consumer Groups Urge Halt to Universal-Service CollectionsThe Consumers Union and the Consumer Federation of America have asked the Federal Communications Commission to stop collecting money from phone companies to pay for telecommunications discounts to schools, libraries, and rural health care providers. In a May 21 letter to FCC Chairman William Kennard the consumer groups called for deep cuts in access fees in order to pay for the universal-service program. Until such cuts are made the groups asked the commission to suspend collection of revenues for the programs "so that consumers will receive what the FCC promised last year—no increase in monthly charges.'' In response Kennard told the Associated Press, "This letter suggests you have to choose between educating our children and having low long-distance rates. We can have both.'' The AP reported that the National Retail Federation and the International Communications Association, which represent business users, also asked Kennard to halt funding for the program. Posted May 25, 1998. |
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