SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 6745
BYSenators Williams and Benitz
Requiring disclosure of services provided by alternate operator services companies.
Senate Committee on Energy & Utilities
Senate Hearing Date(s):February 4, 1988
Majority Report: Do pass.
Signed by Senators Benitz, Chairman; Madsen, Owen, Stratton, Williams.
Senate Staff:Paul Parker (786-7455)
March 6, 1988
House Committe on Energy & Utilities
AS PASSED SENATE, FEBRUARY 13, 1988
BACKGROUND:
As a result of the Bell System divestiture, a number of companies are providing "alternate operator services" in order to connect callers to long distance service from customer-owned pay phones or phones in hotel rooms and hospitals. Although some companies may charge several dollars to connect a caller to long distance from these phones, the customer is often unaware of the charge until it appears on the monthly bill from a local phone company.
SUMMARY:
The Utilities and Transportation Commission is to require that the provision and cost of alternate operator services are disclosed appropriately to consumers. Failure to disclose constitutes a violation of chapter 19.86 RCW, the consumer protection act. Damages are presumed equal to the cost of the service provided plus two hundred dollars. Additional damages must be proved.
Appropriation: none
Revenue: none
Fiscal Note: none requested
Senate Committee - Testified: Steve McLellan, UTC (for)
HOUSE AMENDMENT:
It is clarified that required disclosure to customers provides information about the rate, charge or fee of alternate operator services.