FRANKFORT-- A bill designed to keep Kentucky homes free of unwanted telemarketing calls is now law.

House Bill 47, sponsored by State Rep. Bob Damron, D-Nicholasville, replaces the state's current no call list-- which exempts around 95 percent of businesses from Kentucky's telemarketing law-- with a much more restrictive zero call list. Only persons with prior permission to call someone's home, those with a prior business relationship with someone receiving the call, calls about a debt or contract, calls from charitable organizations soliciting donations and calls from business to business are exempt under the new list, said Damron.

The bill received final passage in the House by a 91-0 vote on March 4, and was signed into law by Governor Paul Patton on March 6. It goes into effect in July.

"This law will bring peace of mind to thousands of Kentuckians who--although they may be on the current no call list-- are bothered day and night at home by telemarketers," said Damron. "HB 47 will put a stop to most of these calls."

Those who have placed their names on the current no call list will be protected under the new law, according to the Attorney General's website at www.law.state.ky.us/nocall or by calling (800) 671-7701.

Under the new law, non-exempt telemarketers who call people on the zero call list would initially be charged with a misdemeanor. Repeat offenders would face tougher penalties.

Telephone customers can expect to receive a pamphlet outlining their rights and responsibilities regarding telephone solicitation under the new law. The pamphlets will be produced by the state Public Service Commission.