Do Not Call List Management
Overview of PUC’s Role in Do Not Call Regulation
The South Dakota Public Utilities Commission (PUC) oversees the state’s Do Not Call (DNC) program, designed to protect consumers from unwanted telemarketing calls. This program complements the federal Do Not Call Registry managed by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and Federal Communications Commission (FCC), focusing on state-specific enforcement for South Dakota residents. The PUC’s responsibilities include maintaining the state’s DNC list, registering telemarketers, enforcing compliance, and handling consumer complaints to ensure privacy and reduce intrusive solicitations.
Managing the Do Not Call List
The PUC administers the South Dakota Do Not Call Registry, allowing residents to register their residential and wireless phone numbers to opt out of most telemarketing calls. Registration is free, and numbers remain on the list until removed by the consumer or if the number is disconnected. Consumers can sign up online at puc.sd.gov or by calling 1-877-642-6642. The PUC synchronizes its list with the federal registry, ensuring consistency, and updates are effective within 31 days. Exemptions include calls from charities, political campaigns, surveys, or businesses with an existing relationship (e.g., within 18 months of a transaction.
Telemarketer Registration and Compliance
Telemarketers operating in South Dakota must register annually with the PUC before soliciting residents, as required by South Dakota law. Registration involves submitting an application and paying a fee, with renewals due by July 1 each year. Registered telemarketers must access the DNC list quarterly to avoid calling listed numbers, except in exempt cases. The PUC ensures compliance by requiring telemarketers to maintain records of their adherence to DNC rules.
Enforcement and Consumer Complaint Handling
The PUC enforces DNC regulations by investigating consumer complaints about unwanted calls. Consumers can file complaints online at puc.sd.gov or by calling 1-800-332-1782, providing details like the caller’s number and call date. Violations, such as calling a registered number without exemption, can result in civil penalties up to $5,000 per violation. The PUC collaborates with the FTC and South Dakota Attorney General for enforcement, particularly for interstate or robocall violations. In 2024, the PUC processed numerous complaints, focusing on illegal robocalls and unregistered telemarketers.
Recent Developments and Consumer Awareness
As of October 2025, the PUC continues to promote the DNC program through outreach, encouraging residents to register and report violations. Recent efforts include public notices on robocall scams and guidance to verify legitimate callers. The PUC also advises consumers to use call-blocking tools and avoid sharing personal information, complementing DNC protections. No significant legislative changes to the DNC program occurred in 2024 or 2025, but the PUC remains vigilant amid rising scam call concerns.
Conclusion
The South Dakota PUC effectively manages the state’s Do Not Call Registry, ensuring consumer privacy through registration, telemarketer oversight, and enforcement. By aligning with federal efforts and addressing complaints, the PUC reduces unwanted solicitations for residents. Consumers should register at puc.sd.gov or 1-877-642-6642 and report violations promptly. For updates, check puc.sd.gov, as regulations may evolve with technological or legislative changes.
