WASHINGTON, D.C. (WNAX) – South Dakota Senator John Thune, a member of the Senate Commerce Committee and chairman of the Subcommittee on Communications, Technology, Innovation, and the Internet, convened a hearing titled, “Illegal Robocalls: Calling All to Stop the Scourge.” Saying they have become major irritants.

Thune says there are some automated calls that are needed.

Thune sponsored a bill last year to put tougher penalties on companies that misuse and abuse robo calling.

The Commerce Committee unanimously approved that legislation last week.