Rhoades Unveils Comprehensive Telecommunication Study

HARRISBURG – In an attempt to, once and for all, identify areas where dropped cell phone calls are most frequent, State Senator James J. Rhoades (R-29) today unveiled his plan to direct a comprehensive study of the problem and find lasting solutions.

"There is nothing more frustrating than dropped cell phone calls and there is no reason why we can't find a way to fill the gaps in service," Rhoades said. "We pay our bills every month, which are not cheap, and yet these drop calls continue to affect consumers," he added.

Senate Resolution 206 would require the Pennsylvania Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to study telecommunication "dead spot" areas within the cell phone industry and identify a broad-based set of solutions to eliminate these "dead spot" areas.

"There is no reason why consumers who place calls in emergency situations should have a dropped call," Rhoades said. "I am committed to challenging our cell phone industry and appropriate state agencies to develop innovative solutions to meet these challenges."

In addition to the study, Senate Resolution 206 would authorize the Pennsylvania Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to develop ways to direct wireless carriers to work collectively in eliminating the "dead spots" to provide seamless wireless coverage throughout Pennsylvania.

Additionally, the Committee would be required to report their findings, conclusions and recommendations to the General Assembly.