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To authorize the Federal Communications Commission to enforce its own forfeiture penalties with respect to violations of restrictions on the use of telephone equipment.

2/7/2024, 8:15 AM

Summary of Bill HR 4224

Bill 118 hr 4224, also known as the "Enforcement of FCC Forfeiture Penalties Act," aims to give the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) the authority to enforce its own forfeiture penalties in cases where there are violations of restrictions on the use of telephone equipment.

The bill specifically targets individuals or companies who misuse telephone equipment in ways that violate FCC regulations. This could include actions such as using equipment to make illegal robocalls, spam calls, or other forms of telecommunications fraud.

If passed, the bill would empower the FCC to take action against violators by imposing forfeiture penalties. These penalties could include fines or other punitive measures designed to deter future violations and protect consumers from unwanted or harmful telecommunications practices. Overall, the goal of Bill 118 hr 4224 is to strengthen the FCC's ability to enforce regulations related to the use of telephone equipment and to hold violators accountable for their actions. By giving the FCC the authority to impose forfeiture penalties, the bill aims to promote compliance with telecommunications laws and protect the integrity of the telecommunications system in the United States.

Congressional Summary of HR 4224

This bill gives the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) authority to pursue specified unpaid fines for violations of the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) via litigation. The TCPA prohibits certain telemarketing calls made without the recipient’s consent and using automatic dialing technology or artificial and prerecorded voice messages. 

Under current law, the Department of Justice (DOJ) has authority to pursue unpaid fines for violations of the TCPA. Under the bill, if DOJ does not pursue an unpaid fine within a specified time period, the FCC may do so. The bill directs the FCC to prioritize the collection of unpaid fines over $25 million. 

Current Status of Bill HR 4224

Bill HR 4224 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since June 20, 2023. Bill HR 4224 was introduced during Congress 118 and was introduced to the House on June 20, 2023.  Bill HR 4224's most recent activity was Referred to the Subcommittee on Communications and Technology. as of June 23, 2023

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 4224

Total Number of Sponsors
1
Democrat Sponsors
1
Republican Sponsors
0
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
10
Democrat Cosponsors
10
Republican Cosponsors
0
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 4224

Primary Policy Focus

Science, Technology, Communications

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 4224

To authorize the Federal Communications Commission to enforce its own forfeiture penalties with respect to violations of restrictions on the use of telephone equipment.
To authorize the Federal Communications Commission to enforce its own forfeiture penalties with respect to violations of restrictions on the use of telephone equipment.

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