[Badray]

My frustration in all of this is the fact that we -- on this supposedly conservative forum -- are running to government to take care of an relatively minor annoyance.

That is what the liberals do. The telemarketers are not raping, robbing, or killing us although to hear some people describe it, that is exactly what is going on. Even those offenses are state, not federal crimes. I can almost understand a state 'do not call' list.

There are market based solutions to handle this. Do we really need FEDERAL intervention?

[kingu]

There are market based solutions to handle this. Do we really need FEDERAL intervention?

Since telemarketing is an interstate industry, it would naturally be under the control of the federal law anyway. Indeed, it is under the jurisdiction of the federal government because the transactions occur via the common carrier phone system.

The argument of market based solutions is the same as saying that if you don't armor plate your home, you're responsible for the theft that occurs. And we are taking a case of theft. People are using a phone service that you pay for and maintain and equiptment that you pay for and maintain. They are using this without permission, which makes it theft. The argument that usually is replied that you pay for the services anyway falls flat - you did not get telephone service with the intention of getting sales calls, you got it for your own personal communication needs.

I'm all for the industry creating a 'do-call-list', and you're welcome to sign up for it. I could even see the industry offering reduced rate telephone services in exchange for the right to call you with sales pitches.

[swarthyguy]

>>>Do we really need FEDERAL intervention?

But its for the children.