FCC approves creation of CUNA-backed reassigned numbers database
WASHINGTON, DC (December 12, 2018) — The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) approved a Report and Order Wednesday to create a reassigned numbers database to combat unwanted robocalls, a move supported by the Credit Union National Association (CUNA). CUNA has strongly pushed for such a database as part of its ongoing advocacy to resolve issues related to the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA).
“We thank the FCC for taking this step toward TCPA relief today, and hope the commission will continue to look at the concerns CUNA has raised impacting credit unions trying to reach their members with vital account information,” said CUNA President/CEO Jim Nussle. “This database, as long as it remains affordable, easy-to-use, and includes a safe harbor, would limit TCPA liability.”
Credit unions have faced questions about liability when contacting members with account information under the TCPA, and CUNA has pushed the FCC to take several steps to remedy this issue. One solution, most recently noted by CUNA in August, is for the FCC to create a single, comprehensive database of reassigned numbers.
The FCC’s Report and Order establishes a single, comprehensive reassigned numbers database that will enable callers to verify whether a telephone number has been permanently disconnected, and is therefore eligible for reassignment, before calling that number.
It also sets out requirements for voice providers and provides a process to select an independent third-party administrator to manage the database.
The Report and Order also takes steps to ensure that the data contained in the database are used appropriately and accessible to the widest possible array of users and allows small voice providers additional time to begin maintaining and reporting data to the database.
About CUNA
Credit Union National Association (CUNA) is the only national association that advocates on behalf of all of America’s credit unions, which are owned by 135 million consumer members. CUNA, along with its network of affiliated state credit union leagues, delivers unwavering advocacy, continuous professional growth and operational confidence to protect the best interests of all credit unions. For more information about CUNA, visit cuna.org. To find your nearest credit union, visit YourMoneyFurther.com.
