Phone scams bill passed by House

NASHVILLE — The House has unanimously approved legislation that seeks to prevent phone scams targeting Tennessee senior citizens.

The measure sponsored by Rep. Gary Moore, a Joelton Democrat, was approved 95-0 on Thursday.

It would impose a fine of up to $2,500 for anyone in the state who uses a false or concealed number through an autodialer to call another Tennessee phone number.

Supporters of the measure say it was proposed after complaints from senior citizens who received outrageous contract offers from insurance agents, pest control companies and people posing as home repair agencies.

The Senate unanimously approved the companion bill 32-0 last month. Lawmakers now must agree on minor differences before the proposal heads to the governor for his consideration.