PA
Pennsylvania House Bill HB750

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB750

Introduced
3/28/23  

Caption

In wiretapping and electronic surveillance, further providing for exceptions to prohibition of interception and disclosure of communications.

Impact

The adoption of HB 750 is expected to bolster enforcement against telemarketers and robocallers by simplifying the legal framework for interception. By permitting consumers to record such communications under specified conditions, the bill facilitates individuals taking action against unwanted calls. This change is seen as a progressive step towards empowering consumers and combating the frustration caused by incessant marketing calls, aligning with broader consumer rights initiatives.

Summary

House Bill 750 aims to amend Title 18 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes concerning wiretapping and electronic surveillance. Specifically, the bill introduces an exception to the general prohibition on the interception and disclosure of communications, allowing individuals to intercept the wire communications of telemarketers or robocall initiators with prior consent from the recipient of the call. This legislation is framed in the context of enhancing consumer protections against unwanted telemarketing practices and enabling enforcement of existing laws related to telemarketing activities.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 750 appears to be largely supportive among consumer advocacy groups and legislators who emphasize consumer rights. Proponents argue that the bill addresses a significant consumer concern, particularly amid rising complaints about robocalls and intrusive marketing efforts. However, there may also be concerns regarding privacy implications and the potential for misuse of interception rights, and thus some skepticism from civil liberties groups could emerge, highlighting a nuanced debate over privacy versus consumer protection.

Contention

Some notable points of contention involve the balance between consumer protection and privacy rights. While the bill aims to empower consumers, there is caution regarding the broader implications of allowing interceptions of communications. Critics may express concerns about potential abuse of the provision, where the interception of calls could be misused, prompting discussions about safeguards to prevent infringement on privacy. The bill reflects ongoing tensions in regulatory approaches between protecting consumers and maintaining individual rights to privacy.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB1744

In wiretapping and electronic surveillance, further providing for exceptions to prohibition of interception and disclosure of communications.

PA SB639

In wiretapping and electronic surveillance, further providing for exceptions to prohibition of interception and disclosure of communications.

PA HB1278

In wiretapping and electronic surveillance, further providing for definitions and for exceptions to prohibition of interception and disclosure of communications, providing for public access and for Department of Corrections retention policy and further providing for expiration of chapter.

PA HB1444

In wiretapping and electronic surveillance, further providing for definitions; and, in Pennsylvania Board of Probation and Parole, providing for exception to prohibition of interception and disclosure of communications.

PA SB260

In wiretapping and electronic surveillance, further providing for definitions.

PA SB598

In wiretapping and electronic surveillance, further providing for expiration of chapter.

PA SB61

Wiretapping and Electronic Surveillance - Authorized Interception of Oral Communications - Cellular Telephones and Security Cameras

PA SB520

In wiretapping and electronic surveillance, further providing for definitions and repealing provisions relating to public access; in enforcement relating to fish, further providing for powers and duties of waterways conservation officers and deputies; in enforcement relating to game, further providing for powers and duties of enforcement officers; in recordings by law enforcement officers, further providing for definitions and for audio recording or video recording policies; in Pennsylvania Board of Probation and Parole, further providing for powers and duties of Department of Corrections; and making transfers between the State Gaming Fund and certain restricted accounts.

PA SB1007

Wiretapping and Electronic Surveillance - Intercepted Communications - Admissibility of Evidence

PA HB314

Wiretapping and Electronic Surveillance - Intercepted Communications - Admissibility of Evidence

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.