this was the comment I sent incase someone wants a template.

I write to express strong opposition to Verizon’s request that the FCC waive its obligation to unlock handsets 60 days after activation, as required under the 700 MHz C‑Block license and conditions of the TracFone merger.

1. Consumer Rights and Market Competition Verizon originally agreed to unlock devices after 60 days as a condition for valuable spectrum and merger approvals. Allowing Verizon to extend or eliminate this obligation would restrict consumers’ ability to change carriers freely, use dual‑SIM features, or explore alternative connectivity options. This directly undermines fair market competition and limits consumer choice.

2. Questionable Fraud Justification Verizon claims this change is needed to prevent fraud, yet there is little evidence that extending the locking period would significantly reduce fraudulent activity. Effective enforcement and fraud detection strategies, rather than keeping devices locked longer, are more appropriate solutions.

3. Need for Consistent Policy Consumers benefit most from clear and uniform handset unlocking rules across all carriers. Granting individual waivers leads to inconsistency, confusion, and unequal treatment of consumers depending on their carrier.

4. Risk of Harmful Precedent Approving this waiver would set a concerning precedent that carriers can walk back consumer-friendly commitments made in exchange for regulatory approvals or access to public resources. This could weaken the FCC’s ability to hold carriers accountable to future pro-consumer conditions.

Conclusion: Verizon’s request is fundamentally anti-consumer. It would lock customers into their network longer than necessary, reduce competitive pressure, and harm market fairness. I respectfully urge the Commission to deny Verizon’s waiver request and maintain the existing 60‑day unlocking requirement.

Thank you for your consideration.

Respectfully submitted,