"If you move your home or business, the post office will forward your mail.  If your phone number changes, the company will give your callers the new number.  Why should it be any different when you're ready to change your e-mail address?" Schakowsky asked.  

Schakowsky introduced the Email Address Forward Act, H.R. 4455.  It would require e-mail providers to forward new e-mail addresses to senders or forward new e-mails to old customers for six months.  Consumers who do not wish to be found can simply waive their right to the service.

"Millions of e-mail users are forced to choose between risking losing contact with friends or customers or staying with an Internet service provider even if the prices are too high or the service is terrible.  With millions of users logging on everyday, it's time to give consumers a choice. It time for email to catch up with snail mail," Schakowsky said.