Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara Announces Passage of Legislation to Protect New Yorkers from Unwanted Calls

Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara announced that a new bill he cosponsored is now signed into law (A4456). This legislation reinforces the Do Not Call Registry, a vital tool in reducing the nuisance of unwanted solicitation calls. The Do Not Call Registry has been a lifeline for countless households, offering relief from the relentless barrage of calls from companies seeking to solicit information or business. Yet, there exist unscrupulous actors who knowingly violate this law as part of their business model, gambling that profits from illegal practices outweigh fines incurred by violating the law. This legislation addresses this issue head-on by significantly increasing fines for each violation of the Do Not Call Registry ($20,000 for violations). This robust deterrent sends a clear message that privacy matters, and there will be real consequences for those who infringe upon it.

Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara stated, "I have personally experienced the frustration of receiving unwanted solicitation calls, and I've heard the countless complaints from constituents who share this concern. This legislation is a direct response to those concerns and I’m immensely proud to have cosponsored it and see it signed into law. It demonstrates our unwavering commitment to ensuring your peace and privacy.”

The newly enacted law features:

  • Increased Penalties: Increased fines for each violation of the Do Not Call Registry, discouraging rogue entities from persisting in disruptive practices ($20,000 for violations)
  • Protection of Privacy: Reinforcing the importance of preserving household privacy and tranquility.
  • Empowerment of Consumers: Giving individuals the tools to report violations and protect their rights, ensuring companies think twice before engaging in deceptive practices.

Assemblyman Santabarbara encourages New York residents to report any violations of the Do Not Call Registry promptly by visiting www.donotcall.gov, calling 1-888-382-1222 or calling my office at (518) 382-2942. "Your vigilance is crucial in holding violators accountable and ensuring the effectiveness of this law."