As the holiday shopping season peaks, Michigan's Attorney General Dana Nessel has reissued a consumer alert reminding shoppers about the Michigan Scanner Law, aimed at protecting consumers from being overcharged at retail outlets. First put into play in 2011, the law enforces the display of accurate pricing, hoping to instill a greater sense of trust between consumers and retailers during these days of rampant commercialism.
In a bid to help the public keep retailers in check, the alert provides an outline of the law's provisions. The Michigan Scanner Law replaces the Item Pricing Act, and it mandates clear pricing guidelines for items—be it through signs, price stickers, or electronic readers. "The scanner law helps ensure that retail pricing is fair and that retailers are held accountable for mispriced items," Nessel emphasized, as per the Michigan Department of Attorney General.
The law is not just about ensuring price tags are visible; it's also about recourse when things go wrong. If a customer is charged more than the displayed price at checkout, they must notify the retailer within 30 days to get a refund of the price difference, and potentially, a "bonus" of ten times that amount. However, the bonus is capped—it's at least a dollar but won't go over five bucks.
Should a retailer drop the ball and not refund the overcharged patron in two days after being notified, the law packs a punch, allowing consumers to sue for the greater of actual damages or $250, plus up to $300 in attorney fees. During this season of giving, the law ensures that the bonus is given for a singular item when multiples are bought, though price differences are to be refunded for each.
There are exceptions, though, as certain items like unpackaged foods and motor vehicles are immune from these display requirements. Alcoholic beverages fall under the act, with added layers governed by the Liquor Control Code. For any foul play regarding liquor prices, consumers can dial the Michigan Liquor Control Commission at 517-284-6330.
