If enacted, AB 2905 will create an important change in how automated calls are handled in California. The inclusion of additional information about the use of artificial voices acknowledges the growing prevalence of this technology in communication. The bill intends to make the approaching telemarketing practices more transparent and helps protect consumers from potential ambiguities that may arise from interacting with automated systems. As a result, it aims to foster a more trustworthy environment around telemarketing and similar automated communications.
Summary
Assembly Bill 2905, introduced by Assemblymember Low, amends Section 2874 of the Public Utilities Code, specifically addressing the use of automatic dialing-announcing devices in telecommunications. The bill focuses on enhancing consumer protection by requiring that any call made using these devices must first include an unrecorded, natural voice announcement. This announcement must state the reason for the call, provide identifying information about the business or organization making the call, and ask for the recipient's consent to continue with a pre-recorded message. A significant addition is the obligation to inform the recipient when the message is delivered using an artificial voice.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding AB 2905 has been largely supportive among consumer protection advocates who view the enhancements to telemarketing regulations as favorable. They argue that the added transparency will benefit consumers by reducing confusion and promoting informed consent. Conversely, some industry representatives have expressed concerns about the potential complications and increased responsibilities the bill may impose on businesses, arguing it may restrict effective communication practices without necessarily providing additional benefits to consumers.
Contention
Notably, AB 2905 creates a state-mandated local program as violations of the new provisions would be classified as crimes, raising discussions about potential enforcement and compliance challenges. The bill also states that no reimbursement is required for local agencies concerning costs related to compliance, which has been a point of contention among local governments that might need to adapt their practices in response to the new regulations.
Campaign finance: advertising; using artificial intelligence in certain political advertisements; require disclosure. Amends sec. 47 of 1976 PA 388 (MCL 169.247) & adds sec. 59. TIE BAR WITH: HB 5143'23
This bill provides statutory authority for the application of certain technical and procedural standards to systems that transmit artificial or prerecorded telephone messages generated using artificial intelligence.Specifically, the standards require (1) that such messages clearly identify and state the telephone number or address of the individual or entity initiating the call, and (2) that any system making such phone calls release a recipient’s telephone line within five seconds of notification that the recipient has ended the call. Such standards are prescribed and implemented by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and apply under current law to any system used to transmit an artificial or prerecorded voice message by telephone. The bill also permits the FCC to apply the standards to other technologies used to transmit artificial and prerecorded telephone messages as it deems appropriate.