Nation IN BRIEF : WASHINGTON, D.C. : House OKs Rules for 900-Numbers

The House voted, 381 to 31, to regulate telephone 900-numbers in an effort to protect consumers from unexpected and exorbitant charges. The legislation requires disclosure of costs as soon as the caller connects with the number and requires parental consent for services aimed at children. It also requires a separate listing on phone bills for 900-number charges and prohibits phone companies from disconnecting local service if a customer refuses to pay the 900-number bill. In addition, it requires phone companies to block access to 900-numbers at a customer’s request. The bill next will be reconciled with similar legislation passed by the Senate.