OUR VIEW: Interrupting dinner is not a freedom

It has become more and more common in American households: The phone rings at dinner time, the call is answered and an underpaid salesperson launches into a breathless pitch for the latest, greatest, cheapest cable service. Or long distance service. Or mousetrap repair service. Or whatever.

On Oct. 1, the Federal Trade Commission was to begin enforcement of the National Do Not Call Registry, a list designed to give unwilling targets of these sales pitches a defense against intrusive calls by penalizing companies who called them. While the list would not prevent certain types of calls (charities, political campaigners, surveyors, as well as companies who have a previous relationship with a consumer), it is estimated that 40 to 60 percent of calls would be blocked.

Currently, the status of the registry and the ability to enforce it is unclear. Last week, when a federal judge ruled the FTC had overstepped its authority in creating the registry, Congress tripped all over itself rushing to give it the necessary power. What is clear is that the legal wrangling is far from over.

Telemarketers will argue that their right to free speech is being violated. It is our hope that the courts will remember that free speech rights are protected in public forums, not in private homes. Phone owners, like many property holders, are in essence hanging a “no soliciting” sign on their lines.

Regardless of the final court ruling, we hope telemarketers will recognize the inherent wisdom in not calling the millions who have placed their names on the registry. Treating people, especially potential customers, with respect will always be a good business practice. It is also far more likely to increase their earnings than interrupting dinner.