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 HB05164

An Act Requiring Business Entities To Provide Itemized Receipts To Certain Consumers.

GA SB282

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

GA SB1365

An act to amend Sections 16750, 16750.2, 16752, 16753, 16754, 16754.5, 16755, 16755.1, 16758, 16759, and 16760 of the Business and Professions Code, and to amend Section 396 of the Penal Code, relating to business.

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 SB414

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

GA SB251

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

GA SB439

"Fair Business Practices Act of 1975"; regulation of referral agencies for assisted living communities and personal care homes; provide

GA S07567

Provides a reimbursement to small businesses and residential consumers of certain utilities for failure to provide contracted services; requires the Long Island power authority to do the same.

GA A08427

Enacts the "fostering affordability and integrity through reasonable (FAIR) business practices act", to expand the attorney general's ability to protect New Yorkers from unfair, deceptive and abusive business practices.

GA HB4098

Relating to violations of the Insurance Code as unlawful trade practices.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.