Thornberry on Stopping Robocalls

“This problem is clearly getting worse, particularly for cell phones. Almost everyone I talk to is affected by this plague of harassing calls,” said Thornberry. “This bill is a good step in reducing the influx of robocalls that have flooded American’s phones over the past few years. However, I believe that action should continue to be taken.”

What does this bill do?

• Requires the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to adopt consumer protections and report to Congress on its progress against robocallers.

• Gives the FCC more authority to find and punish offenders.

• Supports the implementation of new technologies to make sure every call is authenticated, and illegal calls are blocked.

• Allows providers to block robocalls in a reasonable manner without charging consumers more.

• Establishes a Hospital Robocall Working Group to protect our health care system from illegal robocalls.

Congress created the National Do-Not-Call Registry that is managed by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). It is enforced by the FTC, the FCC, and state law enforcement officials. Texas also maintains a “Do Not Call” list and an “Electric No Call” list.

Placing your number on the National Do Not Call Registry should reduce most telemarketing calls. You may file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) if you received an unwanted call after your number was on the registry atwww.donotcall.gov. However, even if your number is registered, charities, political organizations, and telephone surveyors may continue to call you.