Stricter Penalties for Unwanted Calls and Caller ID Spoofing.
This act increases penalties for unwanted telephone calls and text messages, including those made automatically. Citizens can expect better protection from phone harassment, as offenders will face higher fines and longer prison sentences. The changes aim to reduce nuisance calls and scams.
Key points
Introduces prison sentences of up to 1 year for willful and knowing violations of unwanted calls.
Increases prison sentences to up to 3 years for aggravated offenses, such as mass calls (over 100,000 in 24h), repeat offenses, using calls for felony, or causing financial losses over $5,000.
Doubles fines for providing inaccurate caller identification information from $10,000 to $20,000.
The definition of a 'call' includes automated telephone calls, voice messages, and text messages sent without prior consent.
Introduced
Additional Information
Print number: 119_S_3370
Sponsor: Sen. Cortez Masto, Catherine [D-NV]