Senate Bill 2209 aims to enhance consumer protection in Tennessee by regulating telephone solicitations through the establishment of a "Do Not Call" registry. This new part of the Tennessee Code Annotated allows residents to opt-out of unsolicited calls and outlines the responsibilities of telephone solicitors, including respecting consumer preferences, providing clear identification at the start of calls, and maintaining records of solicitation activities. The bill prohibits solicitations before 8:00 a.m. and after 9:00 p.m. local time, and it bans the use of threats or obscene language during calls. Additionally, it mandates consumer education efforts by the attorney general and local exchange companies regarding the registry, and it allows for the creation of a state registry if the federal one becomes non-operational after January 1, 2027.

The bill also amends existing laws related to telephone solicitations and robocalls, introducing specific exceptions for certain solicitations that meet criteria such as prior express written consent or established business relationships. It outlines permissible circumstances for robocalls, including those made by charitable organizations or for health and safety information, provided they do not include solicitation. Enforcement mechanisms are established, allowing the attorney general to investigate complaints and impose civil penalties for violations, with specific penalties based on the number of infractions. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2026, applying to actions occurring on or after that date.