Pennsylvania law introduces new protections against telemarketing calls and texts
Pennsylvania residents will soon have stronger protections against telemarketing calls and spam texts, thanks to a new law set to take effect in October.
New law expands consumer protections
This week, the governor signed Senate Bill 992, which passed unanimously through both the House and Senate. The legislation updates the state’s Telemarketer Registration Act to expand consumer protections for both cell phones and landlines.
The new rules shorten permitted solicitation hours to between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday, while prohibiting text messages on Sundays and legal holidays.
Telemarketers must also honor instant opt-out keyword replies, such as “STOP,” “UNSUBSCRIBE,” or “CANCEL.”
Restrictions tighten on calls and texts
Additionally, the law requires telemarketers to obtain prior express written consent before making automated robocalls and mandates official registration with the state.
While these measures aim to reduce unwanted calls and messages, they will not eliminate the problem entirely. Many scammers operate from other countries and will continue their activities until they are caught and prosecuted.