Bill > SB1339

This bill updates the Virginia Telephone Privacy Protection Act to provide enhanced protections for consumers against unwanted telephone solicitations, particularly focusing on text message solicitations. The bill modifies existing law to clarify definitions and expand consumer rights, including allowing individuals to stop text message solicitations by replying with "UNSUBSCRIBE" or "STOP". The legislation requires telephone solicitors to honor do-not-contact requests for at least 10 years, transmit accurate caller identification information, and limits solicitation times to between 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. local time. The bill also establishes joint liability between telephone solicitors and sellers for violations, meaning both parties can be held responsible for improper solicitation practices. Key definitions are updated to include text messages as a form of telephone solicitation, and the bill introduces specific provisions for identifying solicitors and handling solicitations. Notably, the bill will not take effect until January 1, 2026, giving businesses time to adjust to the new requirements. The comprehensive changes aim to protect consumers from intrusive and potentially fraudulent telemarketing practices while providing clear guidelines for businesses engaged in telephone solicitation.

Business and Industry

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20251/SB1339