Michigan Senate Bill SB0351

Michigan 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/4/25
• Refer: 6/4/25

Caption

Consumer protection: marketing and advertising; telephone solicitation act; create. Creates new act. TIE BAR WITH: SB 0352'25, SB 0353'25, SB 0354'25, SB 0355'25

Impact

The enactment of SB 0351 will significantly influence state laws regarding consumer privacy and marketing. By establishing clearer rules around telephone solicitation, including mandatory disclosures and restrictions on contacting individuals on the do-not-call list, the bill aims to enhance consumer protection. It will empower the Attorney General to enforce compliance, imposing fines for violations and providing individuals with a civil cause of action to recover damages from violative practices. This could lead to increased accountability in the marketing industry and better safeguards for consumers, especially vulnerable populations.

Summary

Senate Bill 0351 introduces the 'Telephone Solicitation Act', aimed at regulating the rights and duties of parties engaged in telephone solicitation sales. This act seeks to provide robust consumer protections by defining key terms such as 'telephone solicitation', 'telephone solicitor', and the responsibilities of solicitors, including the prohibition of certain misleading practices. It emphasizes the rights of individuals, particularly those classified as vulnerable, such as the elderly or disabled, by imposing stricter conditions on how solicitations can be conducted.

Contention

While supporters argue that SB 0351 is a crucial step towards safeguarding consumer rights and enhancing transparency in marketing practices, some contend that the bill may impose excessive regulatory burdens on businesses, particularly small enterprises that rely on telemarketing. Critics highlight concerns over the practicality of compliance with the stringent requirements outlined in the bill, suggesting that it might stifle legitimate business practices while not effectively deterring fraudulent telemarketing schemes.

Additional_notes

The bill is also tied to several other proposed legislations, indicating a coordinated approach to reform marketing practices within the state. This comprehensive reform suggests a notable shift in policy towards prioritizing consumer protection and regulatory oversight in the domain of marketing and advertising.