Bill > H160

This bill aims to increase transparency in telephone solicitations by requiring telemarketers to provide more information to consumers. It defines terms like "charitable contribution," "charitable organization," and "marketing or sales solicitation," with specific exclusions for certain types of calls, such as those initiated by a consumer's prior consent or by bona fide members of non-profit organizations. A key provision mandates that the telephone number provided by a solicitor must be a direct line to communicate with them. When soliciting sales or charitable contributions, telemarketers must clearly state the name of the employing company, the ultimate seller or charitable organization, and provide a detailed description of goods or services, including their retail market value. For charitable solicitations involving professional fundraisers or commercial co-venturers, the bill requires disclosure of the guaranteed minimum percentage of funds that will go to the charitable purpose, or a comparable disclosure. Furthermore, solicitors who falsely represent themselves as police officers, firefighters, or other trusted professionals will face civil penalties. For-profit solicitors involved in fundraising will be required to keep recordings of their calls for at least 180 days, which will be subject to inspection by the Attorney General's Office, and will also be liable under Chapter 93A for violations.