Coalition on Black Civic Participation Supports Handset Unlocking Mandate

The National Coalition on Black Civic Participation supported a uniform handset unlocking mandate for wireless carriers, proposed in an FCC NPRM, which has proven controversial (see 2409240038). “Adopting a uniform, industry-wide unlocking requirement for all service providers would advance digital equity, lessen consumer confusion, and provide consumers with the unencumbered ability to choose a service provider that best suits their needs,” said a filing posted Thursday in docket 24-186. “This is particularly important in Black communities that are more dependent on smartphones to access the internet and often experience greater financial constraints that limit their ability to purchase a new device if they want to change service providers,” the group said.