HARRISBURG -- The fall campaign season could be a lot quieter for Pennsylvanians, who during the weeks leading up to the recent primary became accustomed to automated phone calls from presidential and other campaigns.

The state Senate today approved a bill preventing candidates and campaign committees from placing automated calls to residents who join a do-not-call list.

"These calls are an intrusion into our homes," said Sen. Majority Leader Dominic Pileggi, R-Chester. During the recent primary, some people were receiving three or more calls a day.

The bill would apply only to calls featuring recorded messages, not those made by live people.

Approval came on a 48-1 vote with Sen. Jim Ferlo, D-Highland Park, opposing.

"Free speech should trump personal annoyance and inconvenience, except in the limited case of personal cell phones which cost the owner minutes and money," Mr. Ferlo told the Post-Gazette in an e-mail message after yesterday's vote.

Automated calls cost campaigns less than media advertising, freeing up resources for candidates.

"I believe more voters are rightfully upset with nasty and trashy political brochures sent through bulk mail ... but no one would propose banning this form of free speech," he said.

Minority Whip Michael O'Pake said the calls are an annoying intrusion. They are more likely to inspire anger than participation in the political process, said Mr. O'Pake, D-Berks.

The bill now heads to the House. If approved and signed by the governor, the restriction would take effect Oct. 15.