HF 2518 Summary

• Prohibits displaying fraudulent or inaccurate caller identification information on Minnesota residents' phones, including displaying the recipient's own name or number.

• Exempts law enforcement activities, court-ordered caller ID manipulation, domestic violence shelters, health care professionals contacting patients, and telecommunications providers that block or restrict caller ID information.

• Requires telecommunications service providers to annually certify to the Public Utilities Commission that they have implemented technology to identify and block prohibited calls at no cost to Minnesota subscribers.

• Makes violations a felony with penalties including fines (amount to be determined) and allows subscribers to pursue private lawsuits for injunctive relief, civil damages, actual losses, and attorney fees.

• Enhances criminal penalties for identity theft or theft by swindle accomplished through prohibited telecommunications, making such offenses felonies with sentences up to 5 years imprisonment or $10,000 fine.