Tag

Consumer Advocates

All articles tagged with #consumer advocates

energy-policy1 year ago•4 min saved

"California Regulators Consider Overhauling Utility Billing to Ease Summer Spikes"

California regulators have proposed a new billing structure for electricity, aiming to relieve summer spikes in power bills. The plan includes a fixed charge of $24.15 per month for most customers, with lower rates for low-income assistance programs and deed-restricted affordable housing. Peak hour electricity rates for the state's big three utilities would decrease by 8% to 9.8%, potentially saving customers money during hot summer months. However, some lawmakers and consumer advocates are concerned about the potential impact on overall bills and energy conservation, while others see it as a step towards making utility bills more affordable.

via NBC San Diego|

#california #consumer-advocates #electricity-bills

technology2 years ago•3 min saved

Broadband Providers Oppose FCC's Digital Discrimination Rules, Citing Micromanagement

Internet service providers and their lobby groups are opposing a plan by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to prohibit discrimination in access to broadband services. The ISPs are particularly concerned about the proposal to require non-discriminatory pricing. While consumer advocates generally support the plan, they criticize the lack of transparency in the complaint handling process and the rules' failure to apply retroactively. ISPs argue that the rules are too broad and should focus solely on broadband deployment, excluding price regulation. If approved, the rules are likely to face legal challenges from ISPs and their trade groups.

via Ars Technica|

#broadband-prices #consumer-advocates #discrimination

business2 years ago•2 min saved

Coinbase Prevails in Supreme Court Arbitration Dispute

The US Supreme Court has ruled in favor of Coinbase Global Inc. in a case that reinforces the ability of companies to channel customer and employee disputes into arbitration. The ruling states that lawsuits filed in federal court must be put on hold while a defendant presses an appeal that would send the case to arbitration. The decision was made with a 5-4 vote, with business groups supporting Coinbase and consumer advocates arguing that judges should have the discretion to decide which claims should proceed during appeal.

via Bloomberg Law|

#arbitration #business #coinbase

finance2 years ago•1 min saved

JPMorgan's acquisition of First Republic raises concerns for customers and investors.

JPMorgan Chase & Co. has acquired First Republic Bank, adding to the growing trend of bank consolidation. Consumer advocates are concerned that this trend will limit customers' options for comparing services, rates, and loan deals. This acquisition follows the recent failures of other banks, including Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank.

via MarketWatch|

#bank-consolidation #banking-industry #consumer-advocates