Groups Seek Exemptions From Do-Not-Call List

Insurance, Funeral Representatives Say They Seek Appointments, Not Make Sales

MADISON, Wis. -- Insurance agency and funeral home representatives are asking Wisconsin regulators to exempt them from the state's law to protect people who don't want telemarketing calls.

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The representatives argue the law should not apply to them because they often call people to seek appointments rather than to make sales.

The law allows people to sign up on a list sent every six months to telemarketers, who would face penalties if they call anyone on the list.

The Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection is conducting public hearings before making rules that would put the law into effect in January 2003.

The remaining sessions scheduled are in Eau Claire (Dec. 10) and Green Bay (Dec. 18.)

State Sen. Jon Erpenbach of Middleton, Wis., said the law did not intend to allow exceptions for appointment phone calls. He said if the consumer protection agency devises rules that would allow such telephone calls, he would introduce legislation to reverse them.

If you want your voice heard on the workings of the Do-Not-Call list, you can contact the Consumer Protection department on the Internet, or at (800) 422-7128.

Previous Stories:

• August 25, 2001: Governor Mum On 'Do Not Call' List

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