| For Immediate Release | For more information contact: |
| April 5, 2002 | Shannon Robinson (651-296-5989) |
ST. PAUL State Representative Rich Stanek (R-Maple Grove) voted yesterday to create a state-wide do-not-call list which attempts to drastically reduce or eliminate telemarketing calls. The legislation was approved 126-8 by the House on Thursday.
Under the bill, a do-not-call list would be maintained by the Department of Commerce and telemarketers who wish to solicit goods or services would not be able to call those on the list. Over 20 other states have similar lists.
"This type of legislation makes good sense," said Rep. Stanek. "We have all experienced the frustration of a telemarketer calling our home during a family dinner, or interrupting our evening activities. By adding your name to this list, you can cut way back on those annoying calls and reclaim your right to privacy."
Telemarketers would have to purchase a copy of the list, paying a fee to the state to obtain that list, and be penalized if they call someone who's name appears on that list. The legislation does not affect non-profit groups or political parties.
According to Rep. Stanek, there would be no charge to residents who wanted their name added to the list. "This will be a free available service aimed at protecting the privacy of the citizens of our state. It has the potential to be a great benefit to senior citizens as well, who often end up being the targets of numerous telemarketing companies."
For more information on this issue, contact Rep. Rich Stanek at 543 State Office Building, St. Paul, MN 55155, by phone at (651) 296-5502, or by e-mail at rep.rich.stanek@house.leg.state.mn.us. For periodic updates on the legislative session, visit Rep. Stanek's website at www.house.mn/33B and click on "Email Updates."
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