New Jersey Assembly Bill A337

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22

Caption

Requires refunds for payments made to venues for events canceled due to coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic and caps additional venue charges at no more than rate of inflation for rescheduled events.

Impact

Furthermore, the bill places a cap on additional charges imposed by venues when a rescheduled event occurs. Venues are mandated to limit these extra fees to no more than the rate of inflation. This is calculated from the date of the deposit until the date the rescheduling request is received. Such provisions are designed to protect consumers from potential exploitation during times of economic uncertainty and to promote fair treatment from service providers.

Summary

Assembly Bill A337 mandates that venues must refund payments made for events that were canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic. This is a response to the widespread cancellations that occurred during the public health emergency declared in Executive Order 103 of 2020. Under the bill, if an event cannot take place due to the pandemic or actions taken that make the event impossible, individuals are entitled to a full refund for any payments made to the venue. This provision seeks to alleviate financial burdens on consumers who have been impacted by the pandemic's restrictions.

Contention

The introduction of this bill is likely to provoke discussions among stakeholders, particularly regarding its financial implications for venues. Some may argue that this could impose unfair financial strains on venues that have already suffered losses due to the pandemic. Conversely, proponents would likely emphasize the importance of consumer rights and protection in the face of unforeseen circumstances that disrupt planned events. The balance between protecting consumers and ensuring the viability of venues will be a key point of contention in the legislative discussion surrounding A337.