7th Circ. Says TCPA Do-Not-Call Rule Doesn't Cover Texts - Law360
The 7th Circuit ruled that the TCPA's do-not-call rules do not apply to text messages, limiting the scope of DNC compliance for SMS marketing.
Aforeworn detected this change in the Telemarketing & TCPA Compliance space on July 15, 2026 and published this briefing so affected operators are forewarned rather than caught off guard. It is rated Medium urgency. SMS marketers, contact centers, lead-gen/affiliates should confirm how it applies to their specific situation before acting. There is a time constraint attached: Immediately, as the ruling is effective now within the 7th Circuit (IL, IN, WI).. Acting after that point can mean penalties, a lapsed licence, or lost eligibility — exactly the kind of surprise Aforeworn exists to prevent. Aforeworn monitors Telemarketing & TCPA Compliance continuously and turns every detected change into a plain-English briefing like this one, so you always know first. Forewarned is forearmed.
What changed
The 7th Circuit held that the TCPA's do-not-call rules (47 U.S.C. § 227(c)) do not cover text messages, meaning texts are not subject to the same DNC list requirements as voice calls.
Who it affects
SMS marketers, contact centers, lead-gen/affiliates
What you must do
Review and update compliance programs to ensure DNC obligations are correctly applied only to voice calls, not texts, but continue to comply with other TCPA requirements for texts (e.g., prior express consent).
Deadline
Immediately, as the ruling is effective now within the 7th Circuit (IL, IN, WI).
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