Manitoba law sets limits on cellphone fees

Manitoba's new legislation on cellphone contracts and fees comes into effect in September.

Consumer Affairs Minister Jim Rondeau says the government has drawn up what he calls some of the best consumer protection in Canada.

The new legislation will require companies to fully disclose and explain all charges, fees and terms. It also allows consumers to cancel contracts at any time for a reasonable cancellation fee.

A limit will be set on how high those cancellation fees can be.

In many cases, customers need only pay the cost of a free phone they were given, on a pro-rated basis for the remaining length of their contract.

Companies that provide cellphone services face fines of up to $1,000 for a first offence.

The fines increase for subsequent offences.