Number: RL34361
Title: Automated Political Telephone Calls ("Robo Calls") in Federal Campaigns: Overview and Policy Options
Authors: R. Sam Garrett, Government and Finance Division; Kathleen Ann Ruane, American Law Division 
Abstract: This report provides an overview of how automated political calls are used in federal campaigns. This includes attention to recent spending estimates and polling data about automated political calls. The report also discusses legislation introduced in the 110th Congress that would affect the calls. Policy options discussed in the report include maintaining the status quo, gathering additional data, revising federal disclosure or disclaimer requirements, adding the calls to the federal do not call list, or restricting the number and timing of calls. Some of those options would likely involve contentious questions about which organizations and messages should be regulated by campaign finance law. Constitutional issues could also affect some of those policy options. The "First Amendment Considerations" section provides a legal analysis.
Pages: 26
Date: October 31, 2008