McCaskill eyes measure to combat TV bills

Sen. Claire McCaskill (D-Mo.) is working on legislation to ban misleading and unfair cable and satellite television bills, and she’s looking to consumers for the worst offenders.

{mosads}On Wednesday, McCaskill asked consumers to visit her website and log their complaints if “they have experienced deceptive, or confusing billing practices” from cable and satellite companies.

“Consumers in every corner of the country share common experiences about fending for themselves against confusing, deceptive billing practices by cable, satellite and other pay-TV companies-and I want to hear their stories,” McCaskill, chairwoman of the Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, said in a statement. 

The statement calling for complaints said McCaskill will use the feedback as she lays “the groundwork for a new federal law aimed at bringing transparency and fairness” to television bills.

It pointed to unfair billing practices such as altering channel line-ups or Internet speeds as well as excessive and unexpected equipment rental, early termination and other fees.

“Consumers need protections from these practices, and I’m aiming to provide that and begin holding these companies accountable,” McCaskill said.