New Tennessee Law Creates Oversight For Companies That Solicit Consumers Via Call Or Text

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Tennessee Conservative News [By Olivia Lupia] –

A new law set to take effect July 1 will add an oversight mechanism to the state’s existing telephone and text message solicitation framework to help legislators determine if the Tennessee Public Utility Commission’s Do Not Call/Do Not Text Register and other solicitor obligations set in state law are working as intended.

HB2408, which was carried by Republicans Rep. Charlie Baum and Sen. Dawn White, requires the Commission to deliver an annual report on compliance with the state’s existing telephone and text message solicitation laws. 

Solicitors and the businesses that hire them are required to adhere to very specific rules including annual registration with the Commission, strict calling/texting hours of 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., caller ID requirements, usage of the most recent monthly version of the Do Not Call/Text register, and administrative record keeping. 

The report will track complaint volumes, registrant compliance, enforcement action, and recurring violators, helping lawmakers determine if additional oversight or legislative action will need to be implemented.

Based off the report’s findings, the state Attorney General, who shares enforcement authority alongside the Commission, could also pursue civil actions for violators, which could bring penalties of up to $2,000 for the offenders. 

The bill passed both chambers of the General Assembly unanimously with Republicans and Democrats supporting the measure. It was officially signed into law by Gov. Lee on May 19 and became part of Tennessee code shortly after.

Olivia Lupia is a political refugee from Colorado who now calls Tennessee home. A proud follower of Christ, she views all political happenings through a Biblical lens and aims to utilize her knowledge and experience to educate and equip others. Olivia is an outspoken conservative who has run for local office, managed campaigns, and been highly involved with state & local GOPs, state legislatures, and other grassroots organizations and movements. Olivia can be reached at olivia@tennesseeconservativenews.com.