Suits filed against state 'do-not-call' list

Nevada's "Do Not Call" law is getting its first legal test in the form of two lawsuits against companies for violating the rule.

Consumer Advocate Adriana Escobar Chanos said Tuesday lawsuits have been filed against Alaskan Quality Services - a heating and air conditioning company - and against Ronald Marino, who operates Vegas Valley Air Duct and Big Al's Carpet Cleaning.

Both are accused of making hundreds of marketing calls to phone numbers on the "Do Not Call" list.

"This is the first real test of Nevada's Do Not Call law," said Escobar Chanos. "The law has worked to dramatically reduce the number of unwanted telemarketing calls, but there may be occasion to enforce by action due to disregard of the law and the express wishes of Nevada consumers. These allegations are such an occasion."

The state is seeking court orders against the two companies to force them to stop the practice immediately.

The state is also seeking civil penalties of up to $2,500 for each violation and appropriate fees and costs.

Nevadans who haven't done so can put their names on the national do not call registry directly at http://donotcall.gov or by calling toll free (888) 382-1222.

The same number and Web site can be used to file a complaint against a business violating the law by calling someone on the list.