Violators of the state's No Call List could soon face tougher fines.
Under current law, businesses that violate the state's No Call List face a $100. However, state Senator Jon Erpenbach (D-Waunakee) says that's nothing for many large telemarketing call centers and many just consider it the cost of doing business in Wisconsin.
Erpenbach wants to increase the minimum fine to $1,000, with a maximum penalty of $10,000 for the worst offenders. He says that would send a clear message that violating the law will result in paying a stiff price.
Republican state Senator Mary Lazich (R-New Berlin) agrees with the increase, but worries the $1,000 could hurt small businesses that don't intentionally violate the No Call List. She wants the $100 fine left in place, which would allow a judge to determine how much a violator should be penalized.
The bill is currently being considered by a Senate committee.