Media Contact: 
Michael Snyder
michael.snyder@fcc.gov

For Immediate Release

FCC PROPOSES TO STRENGTHEN CONSUMERS’ RIGHT TO CHOOSE WHICH ROBOCALLS AND ROBOTEXTS THEY RECEIVE
Proposal Would Make Revoking Previous Consent Simple and Require Robocallers and Robotexters to Honor Revocation Quickly
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WASHINGTON, June 8, 2023—The Federal Communications Commission today proposed new rules to strengthen consumers’ ability to revoke consent to receive both robocalls and robotexts.  The Notice of Proposed Rulemaking adopted today also seeks to clarify for callers their obligations under the Commission’s rules to honor such requests in a timely manner.

The Telephone Consumer Protection Act restricts callers from making robocalls and robotexts unless they have received the prior express consent of the called party or if there is a recognized exemption, such as for emergencies involving danger to life or safety.  Today’s action seeks to build upon its previous rulings on robocalls and robotexts through a number of proposals.

The NPRM seeks to close loopholes that allow certain callers to make robocalls and robotexts without consent and without the ability for the consumer to opt out. Specifically, it proposes codifying and strengthening the consumers’ right to revoke consent to receive robocalls and robotexts in any reasonable manner including using words such as “stop,” “revoke,” “end,” or “opt out.”  It looks to empower consumers to revoke consent by text message, voicemail, or email to any telephone number or email address at which the consumer can reasonably expect to reach the caller.  And it proposes prohibiting robocallers and robotexters from infringing on that right by designating exclusive means to revoke consent that precludes the use of any reasonable method.  

The proposal also looks to clarify and strengthen rules requiring callers and texters to quickly honor consumer requests. It proposes requiring robocallers and robotexters to honor revocation-of-consent requests within 24 hours of receiving such requests.  And it would require that wireless providers honor their customers’ requests to cease robocalls and robotexts.

Action by the Commission June 8, 2023 by Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (FCC 23-49).  Chairwoman Rosenworcel, Commissioners Carr, Starks, and Simington approving.  Chairwoman Rosenworcel issuing a separate statement.

CG Docket No. 02-278

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Media Relations: (202) 418-0500 / ASL: (844) 432-2275 / Twitter: @FCC / www.fcc.gov 

This is an unofficial announcement of Commission action.  Release of the full text of a Commission order constitutes official action.  See MCI v. FCC, 515 F.2d 385 (D.C. Cir. 1974).