< TCPA §227(c) SMS Tracker — By Circuit
Gryphon AI · TCPA Compliance Intelligence

Are Texts “Calls”? — State & Circuit TCPA §227(c) Case Ruling Tracker

Tracks federal court rulings on whether SMS text messages qualify as “telephone calls” under the TCPA’s Do-Not-Call private right of action, §227(c)(5). Click any state to see its rulings, then explore the circuit detail below. For informational purposes only — not legal advice.

Texts are NOT calls
Texts ARE calls
Split — decisions both ways
No court decision yet
Status by State
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Circuit-by-Circuit Detail
Click any circuit to expand all rulings within it. Use the “View Circuit” button in a state panel to jump directly here.

Updated August 24, 2026
Sources: Primary court opinions via PACER / Westlaw / Lexis. Key authorities: Steidinger v. Blackstone Medical Services, No. 25-2398, 2026 WL 2028517 (7th Cir. July 14, 2026) — full opinion at ca7.uscourts.gov; Howard v. Republican Nat’l Comm., 164 F.4th 1119 (9th Cir. 2026); Owen-Brooks v. Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate, LLC, No. 25-15801, 2026 WL 2455150 (D.N.J. Aug. 21, 2026). Additional opinions via CourtListener and PACER. Statute: 47 U.S.C. §227(c)(5) via Cornell LII. Published by Gryphon AI.