On Wednesday, October 22 the U.S. Senate passed S.877. The bill, the nation's first federal anti-spam measure, is geared toward stopping the most unsavory of e-mail spammers, including those who peddle pornography and fraudulent investment and business opportunities. An amendment sponsored by Charles Schumer (D-New York), authorizes the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to come up with a plan for a Do-Not-Spam registry, similar to the popular Do-Not-Call registry already in place, within six months of the legislation being signed into law. Companion legislation is currently stalled in the House Energy and Commerce Committee. Action is not expected before the House adjourns.

What It Means to Agents:  This issue is already showing up at the state level. PIA members and affiliates need to work with PIA National to resolve state actions, so members are able to conduct their sales and information efforts.

Please alert us to any developing “anti-spam” proposals that may surface in your state, so we can assist and coordinate our efforts to ensure that such proposals have the appropriate language, as it regards the best interests of all PIA members. Send your alerts to FCCteam@pianet.org