Congressman Joe Pitts (R, PA-16) has responded to the decision by Sprint to opt out of a directory of cell phone numbers currently being developed by the wireless industry. The company cited the costs imposed by a California law requiring companies to secure signatures in writing from consumers in order to include their numbers in the directory. Congressman Pitts called for passage of his legislation as a sensible middle ground.
"Studies show that a directory like this might work, and might in fact be very popular, as long as there are definite privacy protections," said Congressman Pitts, who plans to reintroduce his Wireless 411 Privacy Act this year.
"Without those protections, consumers could face a flood of unwanted calls," he said.
"The California law definitely protects consumers, but it might be so costly that it could kill this idea altogether. That is not the proper role for government to take. We can find a way to protect consumers while allowing the industry to innovate. My legislation does that."
The Wireless 411 Privacy Act would require an opt-in for existing users and an opt-out for new users. Under the Pitts plan, providers could not charge users who choose not to be listed.
"Right now, we're relying on the promise of the wireless companies. But if they decide they are unwilling to pay the price to keep their promise, we need to pass my bill or they need to scrap the directory altogether," concluded Congressman Pitts.