Georgia 2023-2024 Regular Session

Georgia Senate Bill SB534

Introduced
2/20/24  
Refer
2/21/24  
Introduced
2/20/24  
Report Pass
2/26/24  
Refer
2/21/24  
Engrossed
2/29/24  
Report Pass
2/26/24  
Report Pass
3/13/24  
Engrossed
2/29/24  

Caption

"Fair Business Practices Act of 1975"; failure of a marketplace innkeeper to provide a consumer with an itemized receipt detailing certain taxes and fees is an unlawful business practice; provide

Impact

If enacted, SB534 will amend the Official Code of Georgia Annotated to include penalties for marketplace innkeepers who do not comply with providing itemized receipts. Additionally, the bill will require merchants who cannot provide exact change for cash transactions to offer store credit for overpayments. This regulation aims to instill fair practices in business transactions, ultimately enhancing consumer trust within Georgia's market.

Summary

SB534, known as the 'Fair Business Practices Act of 1975' amendment, aims to establish clearer guidelines for business transactions, specifically targeting the obligations of marketplace innkeepers. This bill addresses the failure to provide consumers with an itemized receipt detailing applicable taxes and fees upon rental or leasing of accommodations. By mandating transparency in transactions, SB534 serves to protect consumers from potential deceptive practices and ensure they receive clear documentation of incurred costs.

Sentiment

Initial discussions among legislative members and stakeholders indicate a positive outlook towards the bill, reflecting a consensus on the importance of consumer protection. However, there may be concerns regarding the burdens placed on smaller businesses, particularly sole proprietors who are exempted from certain provisions of the bill. The balance between protecting consumers and ensuring business feasibility will likely be a focal point of the legislative debate.

Contention

A notable point of contention surrounding SB534 is the application of store credits for overpayments in cash transactions, which might create confusion among consumers and businesses alike. The bill does exempt sole proprietors and small businesses with only one employee, which suggests a deliberate attempt to minimize the regulatory burden on smaller operations while addressing significant consumer rights issues. This dual approach might lead to debates on fairness and the necessary extent of regulations in the business environment.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

GA HB1157

Fair Business Practices Act of 1975; violation of statute limiting certain rent increases is an unlawful business practice; provide

GA SB282

"Fair Business Practices Act of 1975,"; requirements for earned wage access services; provide

GA SB251

"Fair Business Practices Act of 1975,"; rent pricing for residential properties; encourage transparency and fairness

GA SB213

"Fair Business Practices Act of 1975," commercial cheating services that target students and examinees seeking a professional license as an unlawful, unfair, and deceptive trade practice; ban

GA HB471

Fair Business Practices Act; add example of an unfair practice regarding brokerage engagements

GA HB940

Fair Business Practices Act of 1975; require retail stores to accept cash for purchases

GA SB548

"Fair Business Practices Act of 1975"; merchants from refusing to accept cash for purchases; prohibit

GA SB74

Commerce and Trade, Courts, and Torts; the disclosure of the nature and practices of businesses that provide legal services; require

GA SB549

"Fair Business Practices Act of 1975"; retailers from conditioning the issuance of refunds on the buyer returning goods to any place; prohibit

GA HB215

Professions and businesses; licensure of advanced practice registered nurses; provisions

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.