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US: Democrats want another hearing on T-Mobile-Sprint merger

By  |  January 27, 2019

In a letter sent to two top members of the US Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, five US Senate Democrats called for a hearing on the potential effects of the proposed merger between T-Mobile and Sprint, reported CNET.

The letter brought up concerns that the merger could lead to higher prices, fewer choices, and less flexibility when you want to switch carriers. There’s also concern that the merger could impact low-income consumers since T-Mobile and Sprint are also competitors in the prepaid front.

Opponents of the merger say the reduction in competitors would consolidate the market too much. But supporters, including the companies, say scale is needed to build new 5G infrastructure and to compete in the market.

While the Federal Communication Commission’s review of the merger is on hold during the partial government shutdown, opposition to the deal is growing. A group called the 4Competition Coalition was formed last month to challenge the merger. Several rural carriers, including C Spire, Blue Wireless, and Pine Belt Cellular have joined the coalition. The group now has 23 members.

Full Content: CNet

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