Legislation sponsored by Senator Anthony M. Bucco that would establish a task force to protect New Jerseyans from telemarketer harassment and intimidation was advanced by the Senate Commerce Committee.

Legislation sponsored by Sen. Bucco that would establish a task force to protect New Jerseyans from telemarketer harassment was advanced by the Senate Commerce Committee. (Pixabay)

“In order to reduce the harassment and intimidation carried out by some telemarketers, we need to modernize consumer protections to keep up with advancing technology,” said Bucco (R-25). “My legislation will establish a task force, consisting of experts and individuals who have experienced telemarketing harassment, to develop strategies to combat this awful behavior.”

Bucco’s bill, S-2946, establishes a task force in the Division of Consumer Affairs within the Department of Law and Public Safety. The purpose of the task force is to evaluate appropriate technology and make recommendations that will reduce incidents of telemarketing harassment and intimidation of New Jersey residents.

“As is often the case with telemarketing harassment, as well as phone scams and other abhorrent schemes, our senior communities are typically targeted the most,” added Bucco. “This legislation is a necessary and crucial first step that will protect all New Jerseyans, particularly our seniors, from this reprehensible behavior.”

The task force established under Bucco’s legislation will consist of 11 members, including the Attorney General, the Director of the Division of Consumer Affairs, and three senior citizens who have experienced telemarketing harassment and intimidation.