FCC Texting and Robocall Compliance - Why it matters
When running for political office, it's crucial to understand and adhere to the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) regulations regarding campaign-related calls and texts. Non-compliance can lead to legal repercussions and damage your campaign's reputation. Here's a simplified breakdown:
1. Robocalls and Robotexts to Mobile Devices:
Prohibited Without Consent: Sending automated calls or texts to cell phones, pagers, or similar mobile devices without the recipient's prior express consent is illegal. This includes both prerecorded messages and autodialed communications. (source)
2. Calls to Landline Telephones:
Generally Allowed: Automated or prerecorded calls to residential landline phones are permitted without prior consent. However, there's a limit of three such calls within any consecutive 30-day period. (source)
3. Revoking Consent:
Honor Opt-Out Requests: If someone revokes their consent by replying "STOP" to a text or requesting not to be called, you must immediately cease communications with them. (source)
4. Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Calls:
AI-Generated Voices Are Restricted: Using AI-generated voices in robocalls is considered "artificial" under the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) and is generally prohibited without prior consent. (source)
Why Compliance Matters:
Legal Consequences: Violating these rules can result in significant fines. For instance, in September 2024, a political consultant was fined $6 million for using AI to create fake robocalls mimicking President Biden's voice. (source)
Reputation Management: Non-compliance can harm your campaign's public image, leading to a loss of voter trust.
Staying informed and compliant with FCC regulations ensures your campaign communicates effectively and ethically, maintaining both legal standing and public trust.
Need Help With Texting?
If you need help with understanding what it takes to become compliant with the FCC, identifying and targeting voters, or running a texting campaign, Campaign Affiliate can help you. Not only will we help you stay out of trouble with the FCC, we have the most competitive rates and tactics that will drive results. Contact us today for a no obligation consultation.
