Hawaii Senate Bill SCR26

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/8/22
• Refer: 3/11/22
• Report Pass: 4/4/22
• Engrossed: 4/5/22
• Refer: 4/6/22
• Report Pass: 4/19/22
• Passed: 5/5/22

Caption

Urging The United States Congress To Enact Legislation To Address The Rise In Illegal Text Messages.

Impact

The implementation of measures targeting illegal text messages could significantly impact state laws regarding consumer protection. As it stands, existing applications for spam filtering have proven ineffective, leading to heightened consumer complaints. By urging Congress to take action, SCR26 indicates a commitment to enhancing protections for consumers and ensuring their safety against digital scams. The legislation could set a precedent for how states manage similar threats in the future and pave the way for more stringent controls over digital communications.

Summary

Senate Concurrent Resolution 26 (SCR26) urges the United States Congress to enact legislation that addresses the increasing prevalence of illegal text messages, which are increasingly being used by criminals to scam consumers. The resolution highlights that while phone companies are not mandated to block such texts, they do provide some level of protection against unsolicited robocalls. The rise in spam text messages has become alarming, with millions reported, reflecting a growing trend that necessitates legislative action at the federal level.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment surrounding SCR26 appears supportive among legislators and consumer protection advocates, who understand the urgency of addressing the issue of spam text messages. The resolution reflects a proactive approach, aiming to protect constituents from deceptive practices that exploit vulnerabilities in digital communication. However, potential concerns may arise around the feasibility and enforcement of any forthcoming federal regulations, particularly regarding the capabilities and responsibilities of telecommunications companies.

Contention

While SCR26 serves to raise awareness of unauthorized text messaging schemes that can trick consumers into revealing personal information, some may contend that it places an additional regulatory burden on telecommunications companies. The dialogue may also explore the balance between necessary consumer protections and the operational constraints of these companies. Additionally, ensuring that any proposed legislation is effective without imposing undue restrictions or costs on service providers remains a potential point of contention.