Prerecorded telephone messages are commonly used for marketing, customer notifications, and other communications.
Georgia regulates certain automated systems that deliver recorded messages through its automatic dialing and announcing device statute.
These requirements address permits, consumer authorization, calling hours, and the information callers must provide.
Federal law may impose additional restrictions depending on the communication and telephone technology involved.
How Georgia Regulates Prerecorded Messages
Georgia Code Section 46-5-23 establishes requirements for covered automatic dialing and announcing devices.
An ADAD can automatically place telephone calls and deliver prerecorded voice messages.
Georgia generally requires covered operators to obtain a permit from the Public Service Commission.
The permit requirement is separate from other laws governing telephone solicitations.
Did You Know? Georgia Requires Caller Identification Within 25 Seconds
Georgia's ADAD statute includes specific identification requirements for prerecorded messages.
Covered recorded communications must identify the responsible caller and provide a telephone number within the first 25 seconds.
The information must also be repeated at the end of the message.
These requirements help recipients determine who initiated an automated communication.
Written Authorization and Consumer Control
Georgia generally requires written consent for calls covered by its ADAD provisions.
The authorization must explain the purpose of the communications and how the recipient can withdraw permission.
The statute limits the authorization period to two years.
Consumers should understand that consent for one type of communication does not necessarily authorize every form of telephone marketing.
Calling Hours and Disconnection Requirements
Covered ADAD calls generally must occur between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m.
The equipment must also disconnect within 10 seconds after the recipient hangs up.
These requirements help limit unwanted interruptions and prevent automated equipment from unnecessarily occupying telephone connections.
How to Identify Questionable Prerecorded Calls
Consumers who receive suspicious automated messages can document several details:
Whether the recording identifies the caller.
Whether a contact telephone number is provided.
The time the message was delivered.
Whether written authorization was previously provided.
Whether calls continued after consent was withdrawn.
This information may assist regulators in evaluating possible violations.
State and Federal Protections
Georgia's ADAD requirements operate alongside the federal Telephone Consumer Protection Act.
Federal law regulates certain prerecorded calls to residential and wireless telephone numbers.
The requirements differ depending on the telephone line, message purpose, and applicable exceptions.
A communication permitted under one law may still need to satisfy additional requirements under another.
Common Questions Around Georgia Prerecorded Call Laws
Are prerecorded sales calls legal in Georgia?
Some are permitted when applicable consent, equipment, and other legal requirements are satisfied.
Do automated callers need a state permit?
Covered ADAD operators generally must obtain a permit from the Georgia Public Service Commission.
Must prerecorded messages identify the caller?
Yes. Georgia imposes identification requirements for covered ADAD communications.
Can consumers withdraw permission?
Yes. Georgia's ADAD consent requirements address withdrawal of authorization.
Can illegal prerecorded calls support a lawsuit?
Potentially, when the facts establish a violation of a law providing a private remedy, including applicable federal provisions.
