California Assembly Bill AB2912

California 2021-2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/18/22
• Refer: 3/17/22
• Report Pass: 3/17/22
• Refer: 3/21/22
• Report Pass: 5/3/22
• Engrossed: 5/16/22
• Refer: 5/17/22
• Refer: 5/25/22
• Report Pass: 6/15/22
• Enrolled: 8/30/22
• Chaptered: 9/22/22
• Passed: 9/22/22

Caption

Consumer warranties.

Impact

The passage of AB 2912 significantly impacts state consumer protection laws by reinforcing the rights of consumers regarding warranties. By stipulating that warranties cannot begin until the goods are delivered, the bill helps prevent potential misleading representations by sellers concerning product guarantees. This particular amendment is expected to enhance consumer confidence, as purchasers can rely on warranties that are aligned with their experience of the product starting from the moment of delivery.

Summary

Assembly Bill No. 2912, introduced by Assemblymember Berman, amends the existing Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, establishing clearer regulations regarding the commencement of express warranties on consumer goods in California. The bill mandates that any express warranty issued by a manufacturer, distributor, or retailer must commence no earlier than the date the consumer takes delivery of the goods. This legislative change aims to clarify the warranty provisions and improve consumer rights by ensuring that warranties accurately reflect the time frame in which products are used and evaluated by consumers.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding AB 2912 has been largely positive among consumer advocates and retail organizations who view the bill as a necessary reform to protect buyers' rights. Proponents argue that it brings greater transparency to warranty claims and helps consumers make informed purchasing decisions. Nonetheless, some industry representatives may have concerns about the implications of tighter regulations on warranty practices, suggesting that additional compliance requirements could increase operational costs for businesses.

Contention

While the bill presents a clear benefit to consumers, notable contention among some stakeholders revolves around the practicality of enforcing the new warranty commencement rules. Critics question whether the bill might create additional burdens for small retailers who may struggle to manage strict warranty protocols. However, proponents maintain that the advantages of having a strong consumer protection framework outweigh the potential challenges of implementation, ultimately fostering a fair marketplace.