Just got this today. I mentioned sending phone cards to injured GIs in military hospitals recently so this is relevant.
Washington regulators are considering imposing new fees on calling cards that could “hit military wallets like an armor-piercing bullet” according to The Marine Corps Times. That’s why we’re writing - we need your support to stop this misguided plan!
Here’s the issue: The Federal Communications Commission is discussing whether to force calling card providers to pay new charges on long distance calls made with a pre-paid calling card. These new charges could wind up raising calling card rates by 20 percent.
Tens of thousands of active duty servicemembers, Reservists, and National Guard members rely on these cards to stay in touch with family and friends! Affordable calls home are critical to keeping morale high among our fighting men and women!!
In August, Marine Corps Times wrote, “Making soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines victims of the intense competition in the telecommunications industry would be a terrible move at the worst possible time.”
The USO is also strongly against these proposed new phone charges. So are many state and local chapters of retired military organizations. The VFW has written directly to Chairman Powell about this problem as have other prominent veterans service organizations.
PLEASE MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD TOO!
The FCC would set a terrible example if it approves this misguided plan to raise phone prices on our military. Please find out more about this issue by going to our website at http://www.concernedvets.org and make your voice heard! Or, call the White House at 202-456-1111.
For the Concerned Veterans Communication Coalition:
Ronald A. Duchin
Colonel, U.S. Army (Retired)
