Bill > HB2225

This bill establishes new consumer protections in Tennessee regarding telephone solicitations and "robocalls," which are automated or prerecorded voice messages, including spam and scam texts. It authorizes the Tennessee Attorney General to create and maintain a "do not call registry," a list of phone numbers that telemarketers and robocallers are prohibited from contacting, and also allows for the use of the federal do not call registry. The bill sets specific restrictions on when and how telephone solicitations and robocalls can be made, including requirements for solicitors to identify themselves, honor requests to be removed from calling lists, and refrain from using threats or profanity. It also prohibits impersonating government officials and "spoofing," which is misrepresenting the origin of a call. The Attorney General is empowered to investigate violations and seek civil penalties, with fines ranging from $500 for a first offense to $5,000 for subsequent violations, though lower penalties may apply if violations are proven to be mistakes and certain compliance measures were taken. Consumers can also bring civil lawsuits to enforce these protections and recover damages. The bill takes effect on October 1, 2026.