Rep. Lofgren Introduces Servicemembers' Telecom Relief Act
Legislation Would Allow Servicemembers to Terminate Cumbersome Contracts
Rep. Zoe Lofgren (D-San Jose) today introduced H.R. 3786, the Servicemembers' Telecom Contract Relief Act, which allows members of the armed services to terminate certain contracts for telecommunications services when they are called to active duty, face an involuntary extension of the period of military service, or are deployed overseas to a location where those services are not available. The bill applies to contracts for cellular phone service, cable or satellite television service, and internet service. To terminate a contract, a servicemember would be required to send written notice to the service provider along with a copy of their military orders.
“The brave men and women serving in our armed forces need the flexibility this bill provides,” noted Rep. Zoe Lofgren. “At a time when our sailors, soldiers, airmen, and marines must concentrate on their missions — and on their safety — they shouldn't be worrying about the bills for their cell phone, cable, or internet service back home. While many telecommunications companies have already demonstrated their commitment to our armed forces, this bill would provide our nation’s defenders with additional peace of mind. While we can never truly repay the sacrifices that our armed forces make in the service of their country, we can give them our utmost support and alleviate some of their financial burdens.”
Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren is serving her seventh term in Congress representing most of the City of San Jose and Santa Clara County. She serves as Chair of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Immigration, Citizenship, Refugees, Border Security, and International Law. She also Chairs the House Administration Subcommittee on Elections and serves on the House Homeland Security Committee. Congresswoman Lofgren is Chair of the California Democratic Congressional Delegation consisting of 34 Democratic members of the U.S. House of Representatives from California.
