New FCC Rules Limit Robo-Calls, Require Written Consent and Immediate Automatic Opt-Out Opportunity

In a move that could help bring relief to consumers pestered by dozens of robo-calls daily despite putting their phone numbers on the Do Not Call list, the Federal Communications Commission today unanimously adopted new restrictions on such auto-dialing.

Under the new FCC rules, telemarketers must obtain prior written consent and give consumers an immediate automated chance to opt-out of receiving calls, reports the Los Angeles Times.

Additionally, an exemption for companies that have an "established business relationship" with the consumer being called has been eliminated.

A FCC web page provides a copy of today's report and order concerning the new telemarketing restrictions and links to other documents.

USA Today also has a story.

Related coverage:

ABAJournal.com: "Supreme Court Allows Federal Suits for Nuisance Telemarketing"