Van Hollen files suit over no-call violations

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The state of Wisconsin is suing a Pinellas Park, Fla.-based telemarketing company that allegedly violated laws prohibiting companies from calling residents of the state’s no call list.

The suit was filed Monday in front of Dane County Circuit Judge Amy Smith. Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen is asking the court to prohibit Publishers Marketing Services Inc. from calling Wisconsin residents, as well as to award the state penalties, court cost and other fees.

According to the complaint, Publishers Marketing Services, which sells magazine subscription renewals, called about 70 Wisconsin residents whose numbers were on the no call list. They also failed to register as a telephone solicitor in the state.

The complaint also states that company employees allegedly told at least two customers that their subscription rates were going to rise if they didn’t buy soon, even though that was not true.

The company has been the subject of multiple complaints since 2008, according to a news release.