The state Senate today overwhelmingly approved a measure to create a Do-Not-Call list for political robocalls, glorious news I’m sure for some who live in the state’s 13th Senatorial District.
From Senator Majority Leader Dominic Pileggi’s news release today:
“We just came through a hotly contested presidential primary during which some people received four or more robo-calls every day leading up to the election,” said Sen. Pileggi. “These calls are an intrusion into our homes. People are busier than ever, often working multiple jobs. If you don’t want to receive these calls, you should have that option.”
In 1996, Pennsylvania created a Do-Not-Call List for commercial telemarketers. “Many Pennsylvanians have signed up to be on that list,” Sen. Pileggi said. “It is time to let them do the same for political robo-calls.”
Senate Bill 820 would establish a separate Do-Not-Call List for political robo-calls. As with the existing Do-Not Call List, the Attorney General would be responsible for maintaining the Do-Not-Call List for automated political calls.
The penalty for breaking the rule would be a $1,000 per violation, and the bill’s umbrella would not only cover politicians but PAC’s and 527’s.
The Senate passed it 48-1, and it now goes to the House. The lone “nay” vote came from Sen. Jim Ferlo, a Democrat.
