State AGs Endorse Legislation to Combat Illegal Robocalls

Washington, D.C. — The National Association of Attorneys General (NAAG) is endorsing federal legislation known as the Telephone Robocall Abuse Criminal Enforcement and Deterrence Act (TRACED).  

The TRACED Act would assist in combating illegal robocalls by prioritizing industry-wide implementation of call authentication protocols. Also known as STIR/SHAKEN, this framework would allow voice providers to adopt call-blocking technology and prevent spoofed calls. The legislation would also establish an Interagency Working Group. 

“We believe that this legislation effectively addresses many of the concerns raised by federal regulators, voice service providers, private businesses, consumer advocacy groups, and other interested parties to combat illegal robocalls and spoofing, and we are heartened that it enables the telecom industry, federal regulators, and our offices to take meaningful steps to abate the rapid proliferation of these illegal and unwanted robocalls,” reads the NAAG letter, signed by 54 state and territory attorneys general. 

Unwanted telemarketing calls have been on the rise over the last few years. In 2018, robocalls increased by more than 36%. As chief legal officers of the states and territories, attorneys general lead the enforcement of do-not-call laws and aid consumers who are scammed by illegal calls. 

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