Deploying service members could end TV, internet contracts without fees under Costello bill

Deploying active-duty service members could terminate television and internet service contracts without penalty under bipartisan legislation introduced by U.S Rep. Ryan Costello (R-PA) last week.

The measure, which Costello introduced with U.S. Rep. Derek Kilmer (D-WA), would expand protections under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) to ensure active-duty troops aren’t penalized with termination fees when they’re given orders to move or deploy.

“When servicemembers are preparing to relocate or deploy due to active duty orders, they should not have to navigate costly and time-consuming cancellation fees and policies,” Costello said. “Our common sense legislation is intended to improve and standardize this relief, thereby alleviating strain on our dedicated military men and women selflessly doing their jobs to serve our country.”

Costello’s bill would enable service members to provide a copy of active duty orders to terminate service contracts without penalty. Under current law, similar protections are in place for civil agreements, rental leases, car leases and cell phone contracts — but limited protections are in place for television and internet service agreements.

“If you serve your country, we should have your back,” Kilmer said. “When servicemembers are deployed or required to relocate, they shouldn’t have to worry about getting jammed financially for having to cancel their cable. I’m proud to partner with Rep. Costello to strengthen protections so men and women serving on our behalf don’t have to sift through a mountain of cancellation fees when they need to move for assignment.”