AR HB1986

Amends Arkansas Code § 5-63-205 to make it unlawful for telecommunications service providers to transmit misleading or inaccurate caller identification information unless the caller has verified rights to use the displayed name and phone number.

Creates exemptions from spoofing prohibitions for authorized law enforcement activities, court-ordered caller identification manipulation, and legitimate business purposes with inaccurate telecommunications numbers.

Requires telecommunications providers to file annual certification with the Arkansas Public Service Commission beginning July 1, 2019, demonstrating implementation of current technologies to identify and block illegal robocalls and spoofed telecommunications.

Grants the Arkansas Public Service Commission exclusive jurisdiction to hear complaints regarding provider compliance and authority to promulgate rules for implementation by July 1, 2020.

Declares an emergency effective immediately upon gubernatorial approval due to growing illegal robocalls and scams threatening public safety and welfare.