Attorney General's News Release

December 11, 2000

Nixon begins Web site sign-up, opens toll-free NO CALL1 hotline to help Missourians reduce telemarketing calls

Jefferson City, Mo. — For Missourians who are tired of pesky telemarketing calls, help now is only a click of the mouse or a toll-free phone call away. Attorney General Jay Nixon today opened registration statewide for Missouri's new No Call list through a new statewide toll-free hotline number (866-NOCALL1) and through Internet registration.

"Missourians now have a 'Do not disturb' option to hang on their phones, and we want it to be as easy as possible," Nixon said today in Kansas City during the first stop of a statewide tour to promote the new line.

"If you are a senior citizen who is being targeted by telemarketers, a harried young parent who is tired of callers disturbing your valuable time at home, or if you are simply looking for a peaceful dinner hour with your family, you should sign up for the No Call list," Nixon said.

The toll-free 866-NOCALL1 line was authorized by legislation last year which prevents some telemarketers from calling Missourians who sign up to be on the list. The telemarketers covered by the law face civil penalties of up to $5,000 for each knowing violation after July 1, 2001.

Nixon said the NOCALL1 operators will begin placing names on the list immediately and will have the list available to all telemarketers by May 2001. Telemarketers covered by the law must stop calling those on the list by July 1, 2001.

Internet sign-up also provides an easy, free way to get on the list, Nixon said. Those who sign up over the Internet or over the phone are added to the list immediately and receive additional information in the mail instructing them on actions that should be taken to report callers in violation of the new No Call Law.

Inquiries from consumers should be directed to consumer@ago.mo.gov or 1-800-392-8222 (from within Missouri) or 573-751-3321 (outside Missouri).

All media inquiries should be directed to Press Secretary John Fougere.

E-mail      Phone: 573-751-8844         Fax: 573-751-5818