NY doubles fines for telemarketers who violate Do Not Call Registry

Press Release, Gov. Kathy Hochul’s Office

Governor Kathy Hochul today signed legislation (A4456/S4617) to crack down on telemarketers and safeguard New Yorkers from continuous, unwanted calls. This legislation will help curb calls by nearly doubling the fine for telemarketers violating the Do Not Call Registry.

“Every day, hard-working New Yorkers are forced to field call after call from relentless telemarketers,” Governor Hochul said. “Today, we’re raising the penalty for violators of the Do Not Call Registry to deter telemarketers, protect New Yorkers, and send a clear message that New York won’t tolerate these frustrating, unsolicited calls.”

Legislation (A4456/S4617) amends the general business law to raise the maximum fine for violators of the Do Not Call Registry from the current $11,000 penalty set in 2004 to $20,000. By raising the fine, this legislation will deter telemarketers and safeguard New Yorkers from incessant calls. This builds on legislation Governor Hochul signed into law in December 2022 to require telemarketers to give customers the option to be added to the company’s do-not-call list at the outset of certain telemarketing calls.

“This law is a victory for every New Yorker who would like to be able to pick up their phone in peace,” said Assemblymember Alex Bores. “I am grateful to Senator Griffo and the Governor for ensuring this common sense legislation, which received overwhelming bipartisan support in both houses, is now law.”