If you have ever received a phone call from a telemarketer and wished there were some way to stop the annoying calls, then you’re in luck.

Three years ago, a Tennessee law went into effect that might take away your headaches.

The Tennessee Do Not Call Telephone Sales Solicitation law directs the Tennessee Regulatory Authority to regulate and compile a list of residents who do not wish to deal with telemarketers. However, businesses are not included on this list.

Although this law covers most telemarketing calls, it does have certain exemptions.

For instance, a telemarketer may call in response to an invitation or by permission from the person they are calling.

Also, not-for-profit organizations can still call someone on this list if the person making the call is a member of that organization.

Another exemption is allowed if the person or entity making the phone call has had a business relationship with the person they are calling during the last twelve months.

A final exemption is permitted if the business calling does not sell or use telephone solicitation and does not call more than three days within one calendar week.

The cost of this program is free to any residential telephone customer.

This could be a great idea for college students tired of receiving calls from credit card companies and other entities who frequently target college students.

“The Do Not Call list definitely works. I would recommend this solution for students that are being hassled by telemarketers,” said Communications instructor, Richard Robinson.

Once your name is on the list, you will be on it for a period of five years.

Any time a telemarketer calls that you feel is not exempt then you can report violations by calling the Consumer Services Division of the Tennessee Regulatory Authority at 1-800-342-8359 ext. 160.

One way to be on the Do Not Call list is to visit the Tennessee Regulatory Authority’s Web site at http://www2.state.tn.us/tra/nocall.htm.

On the Web site, you can register for the Do Not Call Program, read the operating rules, see if you are on the register and download a solicitor complaint form.

You can also be on the list by calling 1-877-TRA-7030.