What is the definition of "telephone solicitation" in the context of funeral services?

In the context of funeral services, "telephone solicitation" is defined as an unsolicited call to induce funeral prearrangements. This means that it involves reaching out to potential clients without prior consent or a prior relationship, with the intent to promote or encourage them to make prearrangements for funeral services. It is important to recognize that such practices are heavily regulated to protect consumers from aggressive marketing tactics and ensure their privacy.

When considering the definition, it emphasizes the "unsolicited" nature of the call, which is crucial in distinguishing it from other types of communication that may be more appropriate or welcome, such as follow-up calls to existing clients or marketed calls that have a pre-existing bond or relationship. This distinction is significant in the context of consumer protection laws, which aim to ensure that individuals are not pressured or coerced into making decisions about sensitive matters such as funerals without their prior consent.