California Assembly Bill AB790

California 2021-2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/16/21
• Refer: 3/18/21
• Report Pass: 3/22/21
• Refer: 3/23/21
• Report Pass: 4/8/21
• Refer: 4/8/21
• Report Pass: 4/26/21
• Refer: 4/27/21
• Report Pass: 5/4/21
• Engrossed: 5/10/21
• Refer: 5/11/21
• Refer: 5/19/21
• Report Pass: 6/16/21
• Refer: 6/16/21
• Refer: 7/5/21
• Report Pass: 8/26/21
• Enrolled: 9/3/21
• Chaptered: 10/6/21
• Passed: 10/6/21

Caption

Consumer Legal Remedies Act

Impact

The enactment of AB 790 is set to enhance consumer protections specifically for senior citizens engaging in financial transactions related to home improvements. The bill aligns with existing consumer protection laws while addressing gaps in the regulation of PACE program transactions. By categorizing such transactions as unfair methods of competition if they violate established provisions, the legislation aims to discourage deceptive practices and safeguard vulnerable populations in California.

Summary

Assembly Bill No. 790, also known as AB 790, introduces amendments to Section 1770 of the Civil Code relating to unfair business practices. Primarily, it reinforces protections surrounding home solicitations aimed at senior citizens, particularly in relation to loans that encumber their primary residences for purposes of financing home improvements. The bill seeks to broaden the scope of what constitutes unfair or deceptive acts in these transactions by including assessments made under the Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) program, thereby applying equivalent consumer protections.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding AB 790 appears largely positive among advocacy groups focused on consumer rights and senior protections. Supporters assert that the bill strengthens necessary safeguards for seniors and ensures that they are not exploited in financial dealings. Conversely, there may be concerns raised by some business entities about the implications of increased regulation on their operational capacities, though these concerns have not been the primary focus of public discourse regarding the bill.

Contention

A notable point of contention surrounding AB 790 could be the interpretation of ‘unfair methods of competition’ as it expands to address PACE program transactions. Depending on how rigorously these provisions are enforced, there may be implications for businesses that operate within the framework of home improvement financing and renewable energy investments. Additionally, the balance between sufficient consumer protections and the ability of companies to conduct business efficiently may be a topic of ongoing debate.