Assembly Bill 5

This bill creates the option to add cell phone numbers to the no call list. The bill also extends the length of time for which a residential customer's notice remains effective. Finally, the bill prohibits a telephone solicitor or an employee or contractor of a telephone solicitor from threatening violence or harassment against the recipient of a telephone solicitation, against a member of the recipient's household, or against the recipient's property.

Read bill here

Analysis -- I possess limited knowledge of the existing no-call list. This bill appears to be an improvement, as it seems inappropriate that a solicitor is able to call a cell phone potentially at the expense of the cell phone owner. In addition, if there is justification for a no call list for land line and business telephone numbers, than it would seem justifiable to have a similar restriction for cell phones.

Regarding the length of time -- this seems like a sensible way to eliminate excess paperwork and attention from both residents and the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection.

Regarding the addition of penalties for inappropriate phone etiquette, i would be surprised if there already was not an existing restriction. That being so, it would seem to be difficult to prove that such etiquette was happening unless recorded conversations were prevalent.