The enactment of LD1379 will significantly impact state laws concerning consumer telecommunications. By requiring service providers to turn over customer numbers for registry inclusion, the bill seeks to streamline the process for consumers who wish to evade unwanted marketing calls. The law is designed to create a more consumer-friendly environment that respects individual preferences, aligning the state’s regulations with growing public sentiment against invasive marketing practices. The penalties for violations, starting at $250, also introduce a financial incentive for compliance, alongside consumer protection.
Summary
LD1379, also known as 'An Act to Combat Unwanted Telephone Solicitations', aims to enhance consumer protection by regulating telephone sales calls. The legislation mandates that wireless telephone service providers must automatically include customer phone numbers in a do-not-call registry unless the customer opts out in writing. This measure is intended to empower consumers by giving them a direct means to prevent unwanted solicitation, a common nuisance for many phone users. The bill places responsibility on service providers to ensure compliance and protect consumer preferences from unsolicited calls.
Sentiment
General sentiment surrounding LD1379 appears to be supportive among consumer advocacy groups and lawmakers focused on consumer rights. Proponents argue that the bill will help safeguard personal privacy and reduce harassment from unsolicited sales calls. However, there may be concerns from some telecommunications companies regarding the operational implications of implementing these new regulatory requirements. The discussions reveal a strong consensus on the need for improved measures to combat intrusive solicitations while balancing the interests of service providers. Overall, the sentiment reflects a progressive approach to consumer protection.
Contention
Notable points of contention in the discussions may revolve around the administrative burden placed on wireless service providers to comply with the new opt-in processes. Some stakeholders may argue that the bill could generate confusion among consumers regarding their rights or lead to unintended consequences if not properly communicated. Furthermore, while the minimum fine for non-compliance is clear, debates may emerge over the effectiveness of such penalties in ensuring compliance across various service providers, given the evolving landscape of telemarketing practices.
Consumer protection: solicitations; provisions relating to the regulation of home solicitations and telephone solicitations; remove telephone solicitations. Amends title & secs. 1 & 3 of 1971 PA 227 (MCL 445.111 & 445.113) & repeals secs. 1a - 1e of 1971 PA 227 (MCL 445.111a - 445.111e).
Consumer protection: solicitations; provisions relating to the regulation of home solicitations and telephone solicitations; remove telephone solicitations. Amends title & secs. 1 & 3 of 1971 PA 227 (MCL 445.111 & 445.113) & repeals secs. 1a - 1e of 1971 PA 227 (MCL 445.111a - 445.111e). TIE BAR WITH: SB 0351'25
Telephone solicitation; creating the Telephone Solicitation Act of 2022; prohibition of certain sales calls; action for relief; exemptions; effective date.
Relating to authorizing a petitioner for a protective order to separate the petitioner's wireless telephone number from the respondent's wireless telephone service account.
Permits court to order transfer of billing responsibility for, and rights to, wireless telephone number to certain victims of domestic violence or stalking.
Permits court to order transfer of billing responsibility for, and rights to, wireless telephone number to certain victims of domestic violence or stalking.
Permits court to order transfer of billing responsibility for, and rights to, wireless telephone number to certain victims of domestic violence or stalking.