Virginia Senate Bill SB309

Virginia 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22
• Report Pass: 2/2/22
• Engrossed: 2/7/22

Caption

Consumer Protection Act; prohibited practices, certain restrictive provisions.

Impact

The proposed changes within SB309 are set to strengthen consumer rights by making it illegal for suppliers to engage in various forms of misrepresentation. Notable provisions include bans on advertising goods without clear disclosures about their condition and requirements for suppliers to adhere strictly to the terms outlined in consumer agreements. These provisions aim to enhance consumer confidence and promote fair trade practices, ultimately benefiting the marketplace by discouraging dishonest behavior among vendors.

Summary

SB309, also known as the Consumer Protection Act, introduces significant amendments to consumer protection laws in Virginia. The bill aims to prohibit specific deceptive practices in consumer transactions by establishing clear rules against fraudulent misrepresentation of goods and services. It sets a framework that categorically identifies unlawful practices, ensuring that consumers are protected from false advertising and deceptive sales tactics by suppliers. This bill touches on key aspects of retail practices, focusing on transparency and honesty in consumer interactions.

Contention

Despite its consumer-friendly intentions, SB309 faced opposition during legislative discussions. Critics of the bill raised concerns about the potential compliance burden it might impose on small businesses, arguing that the regulations outlined could stifle entrepreneurship by making it difficult for smaller suppliers to operate within the law. Additionally, there were debates over the practicality of enforcing such measures, particularly regarding the specific definitions of misrepresentation and how they would be applied in real-world scenarios. The bill was ultimately voted down, reflecting a divided opinion among lawmakers regarding the balance between consumer protection and business freedom.