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H.R.3990 / 105th Congress

Anti-Cramming Protection Act of 1998

Referred to the Subcommittee on Telecommunications, Trade, and Consumer Protection.

Official summary

Version 00 · Introduced in House · Jun 4, 1998

Anti-Cramming Protection Act of 1998 - Amends the Telephone Disclosure and Dispute Resolution Act to direct the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to prescribe rules to protect consumers from unfair and deceptive acts in the billing of miscellaneous product or service charges. Prohibits any person from submitting for billing on telephone bills miscellaneous product or service charges which have not been authorized by the subscriber. Outlines further requirements with respect to the identification, and notification to the subscriber, of such miscellaneous charges. Authorizes a subscriber to instruct its common carrier not to bill for any miscellaneous product or service charges or for certain subcategories of such products or services. Directs the FTC to adopt rules for dispute resolution between a subscriber and a provider of miscellaneous products or services. Authorizes a common carrier to discontinue customer billing if it reasonably believes that charges are being submitted to such carrier for billing in violation of this section. Provides for enforcement of FTC rules adopted pursuant to this Act. Recognizes any applicable State law not inconsistent with this Act. Directs the FTC to enforce the requirements of this Act. Authorizes the attorney general of a State, or other authorized State officials, to bring a civil action on behalf of its residents for violations of this Act, after prior written notice to the FTC.

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Who introduced it

Rep. Dingell, John D. [D-MI-16] · D–MI

Committees

  • Energy and Commerce Committee
5 cosponsorship records, including any withdrawals

Actions

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  1. Referred to the Subcommittee on Telecommunications, Trade, and Consumer Protection.

  2. Referred to the House Committee on Commerce.

  3. Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR E1027)

  4. Introduced in House

  5. Introduced in House

Bill text & related measures

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Related bills identified by Congress.gov

No related bills are listed in this snapshot. This does not establish whether the proposal has appeared in earlier Congresses.

Source last updated: Aug 21, 2025. Consult Congress.gov for the current record.

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Neutral evidence review

Objective

Analyze H.R.3990 as objectively as possible. Explain its main provisions, who would be affected, possible benefits and harms, implementation, exceptions, and uncertainties. Present the strongest arguments for and against it, and identify evidence needed to assess its public impact.

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Fairness and public impact

Progressive lens

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Institutions and government scope

Conservative lens

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Individual rights and government power

Liberty lens

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