Us Congress House Bill HB7116

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/29/24
• Refer: 1/29/24
• Refer: 2/2/24

Caption

Do Not Disturb Act

Impact

The introduction of HB 7116 would amend the Communications Act of 1934 and the Telemarketing and Consumer Fraud and Abuse Prevention Act, reinforcing existing laws against deceptive telemarketing practices. By expanding definitions to include more modern communication methods such as text messaging, the bill aims to adapt regulatory frameworks to contemporary technology. This could significantly impact how businesses operate when contacting potential customers, requiring them to adjust their marketing strategies to comply with stricter regulations on call times and technologies employed.

Summary

House Bill 7116, titled the 'Do Not Disturb Act', aims to strengthen provisions related to the restrictions on robocalls and telemarketing practices. The bill proposes several modifications to existing telecommunication laws, primarily targeting the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to enhance consumer protections against fraudulent and unwanted communications. Key provisions include defining robocalls more strictly, incorporating text messages into the telemarketing definitions, and increasing penalties for violators using artificial intelligence to impersonate consumers.

Contention

Although the intent of HB 7116 is to enhance consumer safety, there may be contention surrounding the implications for legitimate businesses that rely on telemarketing as a tool for customer engagement. Critics argue that overly stringent regulations could hinder their operating capabilities, potentially driving costs up and limiting outreach opportunities. While supporters emphasize the importance of protecting consumers from unwanted piquet and fraudulent robocalls, the bill could prompt a debate on where to draw the line between protection and business interests.