Albany, NY – Legislation (A9457A) co-sponsored by Assemblywoman Nily Rozic (D,WF-Fresh Meadows) to give regulators a new tool to pursue anonymous telemarketers operating in New York was passed last week in the State Assembly. The legislation prohibits telemarketers from transmitting inaccurate, misleading, or false caller identification information to consumers.

“Telemarketing calls have become a major quality of life issue in Queens and elsewhere, because anonymous calls just won’t stop ringing off the hook. This is especially problematic for consumers who have signed up for the do-not-call registry, since without the name or number of the telemarketer, it is difficult to report violations,” Rozic said.

This legislation, which awaits Governor Cuomo’s signature, would become effective immediately should it be signed into law. Under the current state law, telemarketers are not required to transmit to consumers the correct caller identification information, but any telemarketer who transmits incorrect caller identification information may be subject to a fine.

Rozic added, “This bill seeks to remedy the situation by making sure that any violators are held accountable. No taxpaying resident should have to put up with this in their home.”