Requiring Cell Phone Companies to Carry Forward Unused Data from Month to Month

S.983 requires cell phone companies that charge a fee in exchange for a limited amount of data service in a multi-month service contract to carry forward the unused data from month to month, cumulatively, at no additional expense to the customer.

This might arguably be a good business practice, but is not the government’s role to mandate it. Despite the prohibition on directly increasing the cost of the plan, cell service providers will find another way to pass on this cost. The only proper role government has in relation to a cell phone contract is enforcing its terms through the legal system.

By South Carolina Policy Council

Since 1986 the South Carolina Policy Council Education Foundation has advocated innovative policy ideas that advance the principles of limited government and free enterprise. The Policy Council is the state’s meeting place for business leaders, policymakers, and academics – as well as engaged citizens – who want to see South Carolina become the most free state in the nation. For questions or comments on the articles on this website, please email Research Director Jamie Murguia.