Clarifying telephone solicitation
The legislation proposes to amend Chapter 159C of the General Laws to impose stricter regulations on robocalls, establishing a comprehensive framework for enforcement. Notably, the bill includes provisions that allow the Attorney General's office to take action against violators, including the ability to impose civil penalties of no less than $10,000 for each knowing violation, and heightened penalties for violations involving elderly consumers. Such measures aim to deter unwanted calls and provide consumers with a course of action if they receive unsolicited contact.
House Bill 291, introduced by Representative Michael J. Finn, aims to clarify and regulate telephone solicitations in Massachusetts. The bill specifically addresses robocalls, defining them as automated phone calls using a computerized auto-dialer and a pre-recorded message. It outlines various types of communications that fall under the purview of robocalls, including those that solicit purchases or donations and even political messages. The intent of HB 291 is to protect consumers from unsolicited robocalls and enhance their rights regarding these communications, particularly given the prevalence of such calls in modern telecommunications.
While the bill has garnered support for its consumer protection provisions, potential points of contention may arise concerning its enforcement mechanisms and broad definitions. Critics could argue that the definitions of robocalls and telephonic communications may be subject to interpretation, possibly leading to confusion about what constitutes a violation. Furthermore, the impact on businesses, particularly those reliant on telemarketing as a form of outreach, could be debated, with opponents prioritizing business interests against the need for consumer safeguards.