Auto Dialer Regulations and Schools: What You Need to Know

Posted In | CRM | Help Desk | Auto Dialer | Schools & Education

Auto dialers, also known as robocalls, have increasingly become a preferred method of communication for many organizations, including schools. They are efficient, quick, and cost-effective. However, as with any technology, there are regulations and laws that govern their use. This article aims to shed light on auto dialer regulations and what schools should know about them.

 

The TCPA and Auto Dialers

The primary legislation governing the use of auto dialers in the United States is the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA). The TCPA, implemented by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), restricts telemarketing calls and the use of automatic telephone dialing systems and pre-recorded voice messages.
 

Under the TCPA, it is generally unlawful to make any call (other than a call made for emergency purposes or made with the prior express consent of the called party) using any automatic telephone dialing system to any telephone number assigned to a paging service, cellular telephone service, specialized mobile radio service, or other radio common carrier service, or any service for which the called party is charged for the call.

 

Exemptions for Schools

However, the TCPA and FCC rules do provide certain exceptions for schools. For instance, calls made by or on behalf of a tax-exempt nonprofit organization are exempt from these restrictions. Schools, being typically tax-exempt, fall under this exception. Furthermore, calls that are made for emergency purposes are also exempt. This is particularly relevant for schools that use auto dialers to communicate crucial information to parents and guardians.

 

Best Practices for Schools

While schools are generally exempt from most TCPA regulations, they should still follow best practices to maintain trust and respect privacy. These include:
 

• Obtaining consent: While not strictly required, it is a good practice for schools to obtain consent from parents or guardians before using an auto dialer to contact them.
   

• Maintaining accurate records: Schools should keep up-to-date records of the phone numbers they are dialing and the consent they have obtained to dial those numbers.
   

• Allowing opt-outs: Schools should provide an easy way for parents and guardians to opt-out of receiving auto dialed calls.

 

While schools are generally exempt from most TCPA regulations, they must still be mindful of their responsibility to use auto dialers in a respectful and privacy-conscious manner. By doing so, they can ensure that they maintain the trust of their community while still taking advantage of the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of auto dialers.