Q. On Tuesday, I heard on the radio that we should stock up on regular light bulbs because in four years we'll only be able to buy fluorescent ones. How can the government make us replace all our light fixtures so we can use fluorescent lights?

A. Although there is definitely a movement to phase out traditional incandescent bulbs, there's no law requiring it yet.

The story on the radio probably referred to Senate Bill 2842 SD1, which would phase out and ban the use of lighting products with high lead and mercury content, i.e., the light bulbs you're probably used to buying.

However, at this point it's still just a bill and needs to pass the full Senate and House and be sent to the governor before it can become law.

Before you start worrying about your beloved light fixtures and soft white bulbs, remember that lawmakers aren't necessarily talking about those long cylindrical bulbs more commonly found in bathrooms and kitchens than living rooms. The compact fluorescents come in shapes and sizes to fit just about any light fixture.

For instance, the spiral lights can be used in most lamps, while reflector CFLs might be a better fit for a recessed fixture.

On the other hand, if you were already thinking about replacing fixtures, there are several that have earned the federal Energy Star by using 75 percent less energy and producing 75 percent less heat. For more information, visit www.energystar.gov.

Q. I received an e-mail that said cell phone numbers are about to be released to telemarketing companies and I might start receiving sales calls that will be charged to my phone. Do I need to register with the Do Not Call Registry?

A. Apparently that e-mail has been going around for a while because the Federal Trade Commission already has a Web page that debunks it at www.ftc.gov/opa/2007/10/dnccellphones.shtm.

According to the FTC, despite claims made on the Internet, "Consumers should not be concerned that their cell phone numbers will be released to telemarketers in the near future," adding that it is not necessary to register cell phone numbers on the Do Not Call Registry to be protected from most telemarketing calls to cell phones.

The government prohibits the use of autodialers to call cell phones, which keeps many telemarketers from calling without consent.

If you want to be sure, register your cell phone by calling 888-382-1222 or visiting https://www.donotcall.gov.