National Do Not Call Registry
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) recently announced the formation of the National Do Not Call Registry. The program is aimed at making it easier and more efficient for consumers to stop getting telemarketing sales calls they don't want. Registration will be available online or by calling a toll-free number. Those registered by August 31, 2003 should start to see a downturn in the number of telemarketing calls as of October 1, 2003, which is the deadline for telemarketers to "clean" their lists and when the FTC will start enforcing the new regulations. Those that register after this date should see a decline in telemarketing calls within three months.
The Massachusetts Do Not Call list will forward its list to the National list as soon as the FTC sets up a system to accept state lists into the new registry. So, assuming this is done in a timely manner, those already listed with the Massachusetts Do Not Call Registry will not need to register with the Federal registry.
To sign up for the Massachusetts Do Not Call Registry:
Call toll-free (866) 231-CALL (2255)
Register online at www.mass.gov/donotcall.
Mail name, address, and telephone number or print out a registration form at www.Mass.Gov/donotcall and mail it to the following address:
Massachusetts Do Not Call
Program
P.O. Box 1348
Boston, MA 02117
Consumers with questions regarding the Federal Do Not Call program can call toll-free, 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357) or visit their website at www.ftc.gov/donotcall. They can also register online. As of July 7 the toll-free line, 1-888-382-1222 (TTY 1-866-290-4236), will be open to calls from consumers throughout the country. They just need to call from the number they wish to register. Registration is free.
06/03