The Manitoba government has proposed new rules that would address Manitobans’ concerns about misleading and unclear promotions from TV, Internet and phone providers. This proposed legislation was introduced by Tourism, Culture, Heritage, Sport and Consumer Protection Minister Ron Lemieux.
“Manitobans have told us they are frustrated by confusing promotional offers for TV, satellite radio, Internet and residential phone services including the lack of upfront, clear descriptions of the cost when the promotion is over,” said Minister Lemieux. “They want special offers to be clear so they don’t end up with surprises on their bills and this legislation will make that happen.”
In 2012, the province implemented legislation that increased consumer protection for cellphone users in response to similar concerns. Today’s legislation would expand consumer protection to distance communication services including cable and satellite TV, Internet, phone, radio and home alarms. The new rules would:
- require promotional material to include the minimum monthly cost after any promotion ends;
- ensure any one-time charges for installation or equipment are disclosed;
- stop companies from charging for services that can’t be accessed due to damaged or defective equipment, unless the customer is responsible;
- end unilateral changes to prices or services if the change doesn’t benefit the customer;
- allow customers to cancel service contracts before the end of the term and prohibit unreasonable cancellation fees; and
- limit automatic contract renewals.
The legislation was developed following a public consultation that started in October 2013. More than two-thirds of Manitobans who participated said they had been enticed by special promotions for these services, but half said their bills did not clearly indicate what the regular price would be when the promotion was over, Minister Lemieux said. Half of participants also said they had been charged additional fees for unknown or unrequested services, the minister added.
The Manitoba Consumer Protection Office would be responsible for monitoring industry practices to ensure they are following the new rules.
The Manitoba government has already taken aggressive steps to protect consumers and get Manitobans a better deal by introducing new rules on cellphone contracts, gift cards, car repairs, car purchases and payday loans, said Minister Lemieux. During the next year, the province will also take action to protect families from unfair business practices in a variety of other areas including real estate transactions and home renovations.
