Commercial Broker Quarterly: Fall 2003 - GWCAR, Greater Washington Commercial Association of REALTORS(R)

CBQ >> Fall 2003 Issue

Federal Anti-Spam Legislation

On October 22, the Senate voted 97-0 in favor of federal anti-spam legislation aimed at restricting unsolicited commercial e-mail. The legislation was approved overwhelmingly in an environment of strong public support to restrict unwanted spam e-mails and further privacy protections for consumers.

Leading up to the anti-spam legislation NAR met with appropriate House and Senate members and their staff to communicate a multi-point message focusing on concerns with any bill that attempts to create a Do-Not-Spam Registry.

The message during NAR's visits was very pointed and direct: REALTORS^® use e-mail as a communication tool wisely and in a targeted manner and already comply with many of the practices that would be required by proposed legislation. Further, REALTORS^® are willing to comply with reasonable requirements that will help to address the problems created by abusive spam. NAR would be concerned with any bill that would attempt to create a Do-Not-Spam Registry given our experience with the problems that have been created by the Do-Not-Call Registry.

Look for updates in the coming months.