OLR Bill Analysis

HB 5674

AN ACT CONCERNING DISCLOSURE OF ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR SENIOR CITIZEN DISCOUNT PROGRAMS.

SUMMARY:

This bill requires an individual, firm, or corporation that sells goods and services to the public to disclose eligibility requirements for any senior citizen discounts offered. It requires the individual or business to conspicuously place a sign at the point of display, cash register, or store entrance, as applicable, stating the qualifying age and discount percentage.

A violation of the bill is an unfair trade practice under the Connecticut Unfair Trade Practice Act (CUTPA).

EFFECTIVE DATE: October 1, 2009

BACKGROUND

CUTPA

Under the CUTPA, businesses may not engage in unfair and deceptive acts or practices. CUTPA allows the consumer protection commissioner to issue regulations defining what constitutes an unfair trade practice, investigate complaints, issue cease and desist orders, order restitution in cases involving less than $ 5,000, enter into consent agreements, ask the attorney general to seek injunctive relief, and accept voluntary statements of compliance. CUTPA also allows individuals to sue. Courts may issue restraining orders; award actual and punitive damages, costs, and reasonable attorneys fees; and impose civil penalties of up to $ 5,000 for willful violations and $ 25,000 for violation of a restraining order.

COMMITTEE ACTION

Select Committee on Aging

Joint Favorable Change of Reference

General Law Committee

Joint Favorable