On August 4, 2016, the FCC issued a declaratory ruling in response to petitions from Blackboard, Inc., as well as a joint petition by Edison Electric Institute and the American Gas Association. Both petitions sought clarifications on the already existing “emergency purposes” exemption in the TCPA. The FCC’s order clarifies that schools may lawfully make robocalls… Continue reading FCC issues TCPA Declaratory Ruling in favor of Schools and Utilities
FCC Releases Ruling on the New Government TCPA Exemption
On July 5, 2016, the FCC released a 23 page Declaratory Ruling further interpreting the new government TCPA exemption passed by congress as part of their recent bipartisan budget act.
Wells Fargo to settle TCPA case for 16.3 million
The case alleges that Wells Fargo used an autodialer to make solicitations regarding loans to about 3,296,755 consumers, without their consent.
FTC Raises Certain Fines to $40,000 a Pop!
The FTC, in order to adjust for inflation over the last several years, has raised the civil penalty for certain law violations from the previously large $16,000 amount, to a staggering $40,000. Effective August 1, 2016.
Pioneer Day Observance – Utah
Pioneer Day is a holiday celebrated in the state of Utah. While the official holiday is July 24th, this year, it will be observed on Monday, July 25th. Call restrictions will be in place on Monday July 25th. Keeping up with state holidays can be a challenge sometimes!
The new TSR rules regarding higher risk payment methods take effect
The TSR changes regarding certain types of payment methods, which were announced in November of 2015, have now taken effect. The new FTC rules are aimed at stopping telemarketers from dipping directly into consumer bank accounts.
FTC Comments on FCC’s Proposed Rules for Government Debt Collectors
Last week, the FTC filed comments regarding the FCC’s recent June 6 Notice of Proposed Rulemaking. In its comments, the FTC expressed concern because they field numerous complaints about collections robocalls.
FTC and State of Florida Shut Down Debt-Relief Robocallers
On June 8, 2016, US District Judge Carlos Mendoza of Florida entered a temporary restraining order against Life Management Services and a number or related entities and individuals. The case was brought by the FTC and the State of Florida working together.
Utah Jury Finds Defendants liable for Making 100 Million Calls in Violation of the DNC
On May 25, after an 8-day trial in the US District Court for the District of Utah, the jury reached its verdict in a significant DNC case. The Jury found defendant Feature Films for Families, along with its owner and related entities, liable for making roughly 100 million calls to numbers on the national Do-Not-Call… Continue reading Utah Jury Finds Defendants liable for Making 100 Million Calls in Violation of the DNC
FCC Establishes new Consumer Help Data Center
Last week, the FCC expanded upon their previous release of unaudited complaint data, which the FCC started making available late last year. Now, site users can not only access the complaint data, but can also access brand new complaint mapping, location and charting features, or access the FCC’s data through an API to create their… Continue reading FCC Establishes new Consumer Help Data Center