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In time for the holidays, Senate updates consumer-friendly gift certificate legislation
November 26, 2007...With the holiday shopping season upon us, Sen. Richard T. Moore, D-Uxbridge, and his colleagues in the Senate recently voted to enhance the existing gift certificate law by establishing consumer protections, including a $300 fine for violations of the statute, which makes gift certificates redeemable at full face value for a period of seven years without deductions or service fees. The Senate bill treats electronic gift cards the same way as long as they are not for use with multiple, unaffiliated sellers. “As gift certificates become more and more prevalent during this holiday season, it is important that people realize the true value of their purchase,” said Moore. “This legislation offers consumers throughout the Commonwealth protection when making purchases, and holds sellers who do not adhere to these feasible standards accountable. I am pleased that we were able to get this legislation passed through the Senate in time for the holiday season.” The bill, which is also supported by the Attorney General, will now go the House of Representatives. The consumer-friendly legislation also states that notifications must be put in writing on certificates and their packaging, informing customers about purchase, activation, renewal or cancellation fees associated with the gift certificate. The Senate bill sets up specific consumer protections with regard to the expiration of gift certificates by mandating the following:
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