Dept. of Telecommunications and Cable Sets Listening Sessions for Review of Consumer Protection Regulations
Meetings scheduled for Pittsfield, Springfield, Worcester and Boston
BOSTON - August 3, 2011 - The Patrick-Murray Administration's Department of Telecommunications and Cable is hosting a series of listening sessions across the state as it considers updating consumer protection regulations.
The regulations, which apply to telephone and cable service to residential customers, have not been updated in 34 years. In that time, the industries have seen significant changes as companies now offer bundled packages of cable, phone and Internet service; and wireless communication has emerged as a mass-market service.
"As we consider updating these regulations, we want to hear from consumers and the industry about their concerns and the important areas on which we should focus," said Geoffrey Why, the Commissioner of the Department of Telecommunications and Cable. "These listening sessions will provide us with a roadmap as we consider the best way for these regulations to reflect current technology and marketing."
Sessions will be held at the following locations:
PITTSFIELD
Wednesday, Aug. 10, 5-8 p.m.
Berkshire Community College
K111 Theater
1350 West St.
SPRINGFIELD
Thursday, Aug. 11, 5-8 p.m.
Springfield Technical CC
Building Two Theater
1 Armory Sq.
WORCESTER
Monday, Aug. 15, 5-8 p.m.
UMass Medical Center
Amphitheater I S2-102
55 Lake Ave. No.
BOSTON
Monday, Aug. 22, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
State Transportation Building
Second Floor Conference Rooms 1-3
10 Park Plaza
For more on the sessions and the regulations, read the
Notice of Public Informational Forums 
.
The Patrick-Murray Administration's Department of Telecommunications and Cable regulates the telecommunications and cable industries, promotes competition, and protects consumers' interests. The Department is part of the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation, which can be found at its website, blog, and on Twitter @Mass_Consumer.
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