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Burzichelli, DeAngelo, Moriarty & Benson Bill to Protect Consumers from Rebate Scams OK’d by Assembly

(TRENTON) — Legislation Assembly Democrats John Burzichelli, Wayne DeAngelo, Paul Moriarty and Daniel Benson sponsored to ensure consumers who are entitled to a manufacturer’s rebate actually receive their check was approved 42-29 Monday by the Assembly.

The bill (A-1876) would require manufacturers, retailers or third-party rebate clearinghouses to mail rebate checks to consumers in a sealed envelope.

“Some rebate refunds or payments have been mailed to customers as little checks attached to post cards,” said Burzichelli (D-Gloucester/Cumberland/Salem). “Refunds and payments sent in this way could easily be lost or stolen, or even confused for junk mail.”

“Requiring checks to be mailed in clearly marked and sealed envelopes will ensure that consumers don’t lose the opportunity to receive their rebate,” said Moriarty (D-Gloucester/Camden), who is also chair of the committee.

“Some manufacturers continue to mail-out rebate checks to consumers in extremely unsafe methods ways that open the system up to fraud and theft,” said DeAngelo (D-Mercer/Middlesex). “This is money that deserves to be in consumers’ pockets.”

“When a consumer submits a rebate application, they expect to receive it,” said Benson (D-Mercer/Middlesex). “By requiring proper packaging and labeling of rebate checks, we make them more recognizable among other pieces of mail and help ensure that consumers receive the money they are due.”

The bill will now be referred to the Senate.