In Case You Missed It – Retired United Auto Workers Member Speaks Out in Support of Bulk Billing Arrangements
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 28, 2024
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Last week, retired United Auto Workers member Randy Zuidema authored a column in The Detroit News in support of bulk billing arrangements. Zuidema shares his concern about how regulating bulk billing would undermine residents’ collective bargaining power, increasing the cost and decreasing the quality of broadband service for millions of Americans. Read more in Zuidema’s column:
In Michigan, we know that when we bargain together, we get a better deal. Thousands of families save money on their internet and cable TV bills annually through their collectively negotiated bulk billing agreements in their multi-housing communities.
As a lifetime advocate for union workers’ rights, I am deeply troubled by Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel’s recently announced proposal to regulate bulkbilling arrangements for these services. I believe that this proposal runs counter to the spirit of encouraging collective bargaining, and its ramifications would include increased prices and poorer service for consumers.
In a bulk billing arrangement, a multiple dwelling unit (MDU) — such as an apartment, condo, or a planned community of single-family homes — negotiates for broadband and video services on behalf of every resident at the property. They rely on collective bargaining and full participation of residents to obtain discounted rates from service providers, often at prices 50% lower than comparable retail services.
Democrats are champions of the right to organize and negotiate collectively. It’s concerning that a Biden-appointed FCC chair would introduce a measure restricting this practice, especially since a previous Democratic-led FCC found that bulk billing lowers broadband costs for consumers.
Read more in The Detroit News.
The Bulk Broadband Alliance is committed to keeping internet plans more affordable for consumers living in multi-dwelling units (MDUs) such as apartment complexes, senior living facilities, and student housing. We are thrilled to have the support of community leaders like Randy Zuidema as we continue to advocate for the protection of bulk billing arrangements. Learn more about our work or join the coalition by visiting protectbulkbroadband.com.