Washington, DC – 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.
FCC Proposes New Robocall Rules
Press Release
