Legislation deregulating phone companies went into effect today. The legislation allows your landline bill to go up by as much as 20 percent every year.

While most people will pay more, some will actually get a break on their bills, according to the Capitol News Service.

Deregulating phone companies is meant to help landline companies compete with cell and internet phone service providers.

Quality control and billing problems will also be out of the state’s control. Until Wednesday, the State Public Service Commissioner handled customer complaints about landline problems, according to the news service.

While the changes may cost most customers more, Floridians with basic service are exempt from any increases. The legislation also expands eligibility for Lifeline service, a program providing discounts for low-income families.

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