FCC takes aim at annoying telemarketing calls
WASHINGTON - It's a top complaint of consumers -- those annoying automated telemarketing calls on their landline and wireless phones -- and the government is taking note.
The head of the Federal Communications Commission is circulating a new proposal designed to close loopholes and strengthen current rules against unwanted telemarketing calls and spam text messages.
The commission has scheduled a vote on Chairman Tom Wheeler's proposal at its June 18 meeting, according to a senior FCC official who briefed reporters on the condition of anonymity. He was not authorized to speak publicly on the matter.
The proposal also would allow wireless and landline carriers to offer so-called robo-blocking technology that could help people stop the unwanted calls. Dozens of state attorneys general asked the FCC to weigh in on the technology.