Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Consumer Protection Analysis State Summaries
Consumer Protection Analysis State Summaries
Appendix B
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ALABAMA ............................................................................................................................................ 1
ALASKA ................................................................................................................................................ 4
ARIZONA .............................................................................................................................................. 8
ARKANSAS ......................................................................................................................................... 11
CALIFORNIA ...................................................................................................................................... 14
COLORADO ........................................................................................................................................ 17
CONNECTICUT .................................................................................................................................. 21
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA ................................................................................................................ 23
DELAWARE ........................................................................................................................................ 26
FLORIDA ............................................................................................................................................. 29
GEORGIA ............................................................................................................................................ 33
HAWAII ............................................................................................................................................... 37
IDAHO.................................................................................................................................................. 40
ILLINOIS.............................................................................................................................................. 43
INDIANA ............................................................................................................................................. 48
IOWA.................................................................................................................................................... 51
KANSAS .............................................................................................................................................. 53
KENTUCKY ........................................................................................................................................ 55
LOUISIANA......................................................................................................................................... 59
MAINE ................................................................................................................................................. 62
MARYLAND ....................................................................................................................................... 66
MASSACHUSETTS............................................................................................................................. 69
MICHIGAN .......................................................................................................................................... 72
MINNESOTA ....................................................................................................................................... 75
MISSISSIPPI ........................................................................................................................................ 79
MISSOURI ........................................................................................................................................... 82
MONTANA .......................................................................................................................................... 86
NEBRASKA ......................................................................................................................................... 89
NEVADA.............................................................................................................................................. 93
NEW HAMPSHIRE ............................................................................................................................. 97
NEW JERSEY .................................................................................................................................... 100
NEW MEXICO................................................................................................................................... 103
NEW YORK ....................................................................................................................................... 108
NORTH CAROLINA ......................................................................................................................... 112
NORTH DAKOTA............................................................................................................................. 116
OHIO .................................................................................................................................................. 119
OKLAHOMA ..................................................................................................................................... 122
OREGON............................................................................................................................................ 126
PENNSYLVANIA.............................................................................................................................. 129
RHODE ISLAND ............................................................................................................................... 131
SOUTH CAROLINA.......................................................................................................................... 135
SOUTH DAKOTA ............................................................................................................................. 139
TENNESSEE ...................................................................................................................................... 143
TEXAS................................................................................................................................................ 147
UTAH ................................................................................................................................................. 149
VERMONT......................................................................................................................................... 152
VIRGINIA .......................................................................................................................................... 156
WASHINGTON ................................................................................................................................. 159
WEST VIRGINIA .............................................................................................................................. 163
WISCONSIN ...................................................................................................................................... 167
WYOMING ........................................................................................................................................ 171
ALABAMA
Ala. Code 8-19-1 through 8-19-15
Deceptive Trade Practices Act
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
c. Provides the state agency
substantive rulemaking
authority
2. Lack of preconditions
to public enforcement
a. Allows public
enforcement without
requiring a showing of the
defendants intent or
knowledge
COMMENTS
Strong Ala. Code 8-19-5(27)
Strong Ala. Code 8-19-5(27)
Weak
Strong
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
COMMENTS
for a suit
a. Does not require
reliance
Weak
Strong
Strong
Strong
Weak
Weak
2. Available remedies
a. Compensatory damages
b. Multiple or punitive
damages
c. Attorney fees for
consumers
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
b. Insurance
c. Utilities
e. Real estate
ALASKA
Alaska Stat. 45.50.471 through 45.50.561
Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Act
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
c. Provides the state agency
substantive rulemaking
authority
2. Lack of preconditions
to public enforcement
a. Allows public
enforcement without
requiring a showing of the
defendants intent or
knowledge
COMMENTS
Strong Alaska Stat. 45.50.471(a)
Strong Alaska Stat. 45.50.471(a)
Strong Alaska Stat. 45.50.491. State has adopted
substantive rules.
Strong
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
c. Civil penalty amount for
initial violations
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
a. Does not require reliance
COMMENTS
Strong
2. Available remedies
a. Compensatory damages
b. Multiple or punitive
damages
c. Attorney fees for
consumers
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
Mixed
creditors practice.
In addition, Alaska Stat. 45.50.481(a)(3)
exempts an act or transaction regulated under
AS 06.05, the Alaska Banking Code. However,
Alaska Stat. 45.50.481(b) states that this
exemption does not apply to transactions
between banks and their customers, borrowers,
or depositors, so the exemption has little effect
on consumers.
A final issue is the definition of goods or
services. In Barber v. National Bank of Alaska,
815 P.2d 857 (Alaska 1991), the Alaska
Supreme Court held that a real estate loan was
not a good under Alaskas UDAP statute.
However, this decision was legislatively
overruled in 2003 by the addition of Alaska Stat.
45.50.561(a)(9), which defines goods or
services to include those provided in connection
with a consumer credit transaction or with a
transaction involving an indebtedness secured by
the consumers residence. In addition, the
private cause of action at Alaska Stat.
45.50.531 is not limited in any way that would
exclude credit.
b. Insurance
Weak
c. Utilities
Mixed
ARIZONA
Ariz. Rev. Stat. Ann. 44-1521 through 44-1534
Consumer Fraud Act
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
c. Provides the state agency
substantive rulemaking
authority
2. Lack of preconditions
to public enforcement
a. Allows public
enforcement without
requiring a showing of the
defendants intent or
knowledge
COMMENTS
Weak
Strong Ariz. Rev. Stat. 44-1522
Weak
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
c. Civil penalty amount for
initial violations
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
a. Does not require
reliance
COMMENTS
Strong
Strong
2. Available remedies
a. Compensatory damages
Strong
b. Multiple or punitive
damages
c. Attorney fees for
consumers
Weak
Weak
Strong
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
Strong
b. Insurance
Strong
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
c. Utilities
e. Real estate
10
ARKANSAS
Ark. Code Ann. 4-88-101 through 4-88-207
Deceptive Trade Practices Act
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
c. Provides the state agency
substantive rulemaking
authority
2. Lack of preconditions
to public enforcement
a. Allows public
enforcement without
requiring a showing of the
defendants intent or
knowledge
COMMENTS
Strong Ark. Code 4-88-107(a) (prefatory language) &
(a)(10) (catchall)
Strong Ark. Code 4-88-107(a), (a)(10)
Weak
Mixed
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
c. Civil penalty amount for
initial violations
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
a. Does not require
reliance
COMMENTS
11
Strong
Strong
2. Available remedies
a. Compensatory damages
b. Multiple or punitive
damages
c. Attorney fees for
consumers
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
b. Insurance
Strong
Weak
Strong
Strong
12
c. Utilities
e. Real estate
13
CALIFORNIA
Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code 17200 through 17594 (West)
Unfair Competition Law
Cal. Civ. Code 1750 through 1785 (West)
Consumers Legal Remedies Act
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
c. Provides the state agency
substantive rulemaking
authority
2. Lack of preconditions
to public enforcement
a. Allows public
enforcement without
requiring a showing of the
defendants intent or
knowledge
COMMENTS
Strong Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code 17200
Strong Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code 17200
Weak
Strong
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
c. Civil penalty amount for
initial violations
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
a. Does not require
reliance
COMMENTS
Undecided This issue has not yet been decided and the
matter is currently before the state supreme
court in Pfizer Inc. v. Superior Court, 45
Cal.Rptr.3d 840 (App. 2006), review granted,
146 P.3d 1250 (Cal. 2006).
Strong
14
Mixed
a. Compensatory damages
Strong
b. Multiple or punitive
damages
c. Attorney fees for
consumers
Strong
2. Available remedies
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
Strong
Strong
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
Strong
b. Insurance
Strong
15
c. Utilities
Strong
Strong
e. Real estate
Strong
16
COLORADO
Colo. Rev. Stat. 6-1-101 through 6-1-115
Consumer Protection Act
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
c. Provides the state agency
substantive rulemaking
authority
2. Lack of preconditions
to public enforcement
a. Allows public
enforcement without
requiring a showing of the
defendants intent or
knowledge
COMMENTS
Weak
Weak
Weak
Weak
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
c. Civil penalty amount for
initial violations
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
a. Does not require reliance
COMMENTS
Strong
17
Weak
Strong
2. Available remedies
a. Compensatory damages
b. Multiple or punitive
damages
Strong
Strong
Strong
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
Strong
Strong
18
b. Insurance
Strong
c. Utilities
Strong
19
Strong
e. Real estate
Strong
20
CONNECTICUT
Conn. Gen. Stat. 42-110a through 42-110q
Connecticut Unfair Trade Practices Act
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
c. Provides the state agency
substantive rulemaking
authority
2. Lack of preconditions
to public enforcement
a. Allows public
enforcement without
requiring a showing of the
defendants intent or
knowledge
COMMENTS
Strong Conn. Gen. Stat. 42-110b(a)
Strong Conn. Gen. Stat. 42-110b(a)
Strong Conn. Gen. Stat. 42-110b. State has adopted a
number of regulations.
Strong
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
c. Civil penalty amount for
initial violations
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
COMMENTS
Strong
Strong
Strong
21
2. Available remedies
a. Compensatory damages
b. Multiple or punitive
damages
Strong
Strong
Strong
Strong
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
Strong
b. Insurance
Mixed
c. Utilities
Strong
Strong
e. Real estate
Strong
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
22
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
D.C. Code 28-3901 through 28-3913
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
c. Provides the state agency
substantive rulemaking
authority
2. Lack of preconditions
to public enforcement
a. Allows public
enforcement without
requiring a showing of the
defendants intent or
knowledge
COMMENTS
Strong D.C. Code 28-3904(r)
Strong D.C. Code 28-3904(e)
Strong Mayor has authority under D.C. Code 28-3913.
However, no rules have been adopted.
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
COMMENTS
23
for a suit
a. Does not require reliance
Strong
Strong
Strong
2. Available remedies
a. Compensatory damages
b. Multiple or punitive
damages
Strong
Strong
Strong
Strong
28-3905(k)(1), (k)(1)(E)
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
b. Insurance
Strong
Strong
c. Utilities
Strong
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
24
Strong
e. Real estate
Strong
25
DELAWARE
Del. Code Ann. tit. 6, 2511 through 2527, 2580 through 2584
Consumer Fraud Act
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
c. Provides the state agency
substantive rulemaking
authority
2. Lack of preconditions
to public enforcement
a. Allows public
enforcement without
requiring a showing of the
defendants intent or
knowledge
COMMENTS
Weak
Strong Del. Code Ann. tit. 6, 2513(a).
Weak
Strong
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
c. Civil penalty amount for
initial violations
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
a. Does not require
reliance
b. Does not require a
showing of public interest
or public impact
c. Does not require presuit notice to the defendant
COMMENTS
Strong
Strong
Strong
2. Available remedies
26
a. Compensatory damages
Strong
b. Multiple or punitive
damages
c. Attorney fees for
consumers
Weak
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
b. Insurance
c. Utilities
d. Post-sale acts (debt
collection, repossession)
e. Real estate
Weak
Strong
27
28
FLORIDA
Fla. Stat. 501.201 through 501.213
Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
c. Provides the state agency
substantive rulemaking
authority
2. Lack of preconditions
to public enforcement
a. Allows public
enforcement without
requiring a showing of the
defendants intent or
knowledge
COMMENTS
Strong Fla. Stat. Ann. 501.204 broadly prohibits both
unfair and unconscionable acts.
Strong Fla. Stat. Ann. 501.204
Strong Fla. Stat. Ann. 501.205. However, the state
agency has repealed almost all of its rules.
Strong
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
c. Civil penalty amount for
initial violations
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
a. Does not require
reliance
COMMENTS
Mixed
29
Strong
Strong
2. Available remedies
a. Compensatory damages
b. Multiple or punitive
damages
c. Attorney fees for
consumers
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
Strong
Weak
Weak
Strong
Weak
30
b. Insurance
Weak
c. Utilities
Weak
Mixed
e. Real estate
Mixed
31
32
GEORGIA
Ga. Code Ann. 10-1-390 through 10-1-407
Fair Business Practices Act
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
c. Provides the state agency
substantive rulemaking
authority
2. Lack of preconditions
to public enforcement
a. Allows public
enforcement without
requiring a showing of the
defendants intent or
knowledge
COMMENTS
Strong Ga. Code 10-1-393
Strong Ga. Code 10-1-393(a)
Strong Ga. Code 10-1-394 (and state has adopted
several)
Strong
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
c. Civil penalty amount for
initial violations
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
a. Does not require
reliance
COMMENTS
Weak
33
Weak
Weak
2. Available remedies
a. Compensatory damages
b. Multiple or punitive
damages
Strong
Strong
Mixed
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
Weak
34
b. Insurance
c. Utilities
e. Real estate
35
36
HAWAII
Haw. Rev. Stat. 480-1 through 480-24
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
c. Provides the state agency
substantive rulemaking
authority
2. Lack of preconditions
to public enforcement
a. Allows public
enforcement without
requiring a showing of the
defendants intent or
knowledge
COMMENTS
Strong Haw. Rev. Stat. 480-2(A)
Strong Haw. Rev. Stat. 480-2(A)
Strong Haw. Rev. Stat. 487-5(5). State has adopted
several substantive rules.
Strong
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
c. Civil penalty amount for
initial violations
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
a. Does not require
reliance
COMMENTS
37
Strong
specifically addressed.
Haw. Rev. Stat. 480-2(c)
Strong
2. Available remedies
a. Compensatory damages
b. Multiple or punitive
damages
c. Attorney fees for
consumers
Strong
Strong
Strong
Strong
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
Strong
b. Insurance
Strong
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
38
c. Utilities
Strong
Strong
e. Real estate
Strong
39
IDAHO
Idaho Code Ann. 48-601 through 48-619
Consumer Protection Act
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
c. Provides the state agency
substantive rulemaking
authority
2. Lack of preconditions
to public enforcement
a. Allows public
enforcement without
requiring a showing of the
defendants intent or
knowledge
COMMENTS
Strong Idaho Code 48-603(18) and 48-603C broadly
prohibit unconscionable acts (but regulated
lenders are excluded from the first of these
prohibitions and possibly from the second
because of a cross-reference in the statute).
Strong Idaho Code 48-603(17) broadly prohibits
deception.
Strong Idaho Code 48-604(2), and Idaho has adopted a
number of regulations.
Strong
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
c. Civil penalty amount for
initial violations
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
a. Does not require
reliance
b. Does not require a
showing of public interest
or public impact
c. Does not require pre-
COMMENTS
Strong
40
Strong
Strong
Strong
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
Strong
41
b. Insurance
c. Utilities
42
ILLINOIS
815 Ill. Comp. Stat. 505/1 through 505/12
Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Business Practices Act
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
c. Provides the state agency
substantive rulemaking
authority
2. Lack of preconditions
to public enforcement
a. Allows public
enforcement without
requiring a showing of the
defendants intent or
knowledge
COMMENTS
Strong 815 Ill. Comp. Stat. Ann. 505/2
Strong 815 Ill. Comp. Stat. Ann. 505/2
Strong 815 Ill. Comp. Stat. Ann. 505/4. Illinois has
adopted a number of regulations: Ill. Admin.
Code tit. 14 460.10 et seq.
Strong
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
c. Civil penalty amount for
initial violations
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
COMMENTS
Strong
Strong
43
2. Available remedies
a. Compensatory damages
b. Multiple or punitive
damages
c. Attorney fees for
consumers
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
Strong
Weak
Strong
Strong
Mixed
44
b. Insurance
Strong
c. Utilities
Strong
45
Strong
e. Real estate
Strong
46
47
INDIANA
Ind. Code 24-5-0.5-1 through 24-5-0.5-12
Deceptive Consumer Sales Act
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
c. Provides the state
agency substantive
rulemaking authority
2. Lack of preconditions
to public enforcement
a. Allows public
enforcement without
requiring a showing of the
defendants intent or
knowledge
COMMENTS
Strong
Weak
Weak
Weak
Strong
Strong
Mixed
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
c. Civil penalty amount for
initial violations
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
a. Does not require
reliance
b. Does not require a
showing of public interest
or public impact
c. Does not require pre-
COMMENTS
Weak
Strong
Weak
48
2. Available remedies
a. Compensatory damages
b. Multiple or punitive
damages
c. Attorney fees for
consumers
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
Strong
Strong
Strong
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
Strong
b. Insurance
Weak
c. Utilities
Strong
49
Strong
e. Real estate
Weak
50
IOWA
Iowa Code 714.16 through 714.16A
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
COMMENTS
Mixed
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
c. Civil penalty amount for
initial violations
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
a. Does not require reliance
Weak
Weak
COMMENTS
51
Weak
2. Available remedies
a. Compensatory damages
Weak
b. Multiple or punitive
damages
c. Attorney fees for
consumers
Weak
Weak
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
Weak
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
b. Insurance
c. Utilities
d. Post-sale acts (debt
collection, repossession)
Strong
Strong
Strong
Strong
e. Real estate
Strong
52
KANSAS
Kan. Stat. Ann. 50-623 through 50-640 and 50-675a through 50-679a
Consumer Protection Act
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
c. Provides the state agency
substantive rulemaking
authority
2. Lack of preconditions
to public enforcement
a. Allows public
enforcement without
requiring a showing of the
defendants intent or
knowledge
COMMENTS
Strong Kan. Stat. 50-627
Strong Kan. Stat. 50-626(a)
Weak
Mixed
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
c. Civil penalty amount for
initial violations
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
a. Does not require reliance
COMMENTS
Strong
53
Strong
Strong
2. Available remedies
a. Compensatory damages
b. Multiple or punitive
damages
c. Attorney fees for
consumers
Strong
Weak
Strong
Strong
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
Strong
b. Insurance
Weak
c. Utilities
Strong
Strong
e. Real estate
Strong
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
54
KENTUCKY
Ky. Rev. Stat. Ann. 367.110 through 367.990 (West)
Consumer Protection Act
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
c. Provides the state agency
substantive rulemaking
authority
2. Lack of preconditions
to public enforcement
a. Allows public
enforcement without
requiring a showing of the
defendants intent or
knowledge
COMMENTS
Strong Ky. Rev. Stat. 367.170
Strong Ky. Rev. Stat. 367.170
Weak
Strong
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
c. Civil penalty amount for
initial violations
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
a. Does not require
reliance
COMMENTS
55
Strong
Strong
2. Available remedies
a. Compensatory damages
b. Multiple or punitive
damages
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
Strong
Strong
Strong
Strong
56
b. Insurance
c. Utilities
e. Real estate
57
58
LOUISIANA
La. Rev. Stat. Ann. 51:1401 through 51:1420
Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Law
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
c. Provides the state agency
substantive rulemaking
authority
2. Lack of preconditions
to public enforcement
a. Allows public
enforcement without
requiring a showing of the
defendants intent or
knowledge
COMMENTS
Strong La. Stat. Ann. 51:1405(A) (unfair acts or
practices)
Strong La. Stat. Ann. 51:1405(A)
Strong La. Stat. Ann. 51:1405(B). The state has
adopted a number of regulations.
Strong
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
c. Civil penalty amount for
initial violations
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
a. Does not require
reliance
b. Does not require a
showing of public interest
or public impact
c. Does not require presuit notice to the defendant
COMMENTS
Strong
2. Available remedies
59
a. Compensatory damages
b. Multiple or punitive
damages
Strong
Strong
Strong
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
Weak
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
Weak
b. Insurance
Weak
c. Utilities
Weak
Strong
60
e. Real estate
Strong
61
MAINE
Me. Rev. Stat. Ann. tit. 5, 205A through 214
Unfair Trade Practices Act
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
c. Provides the state agency
substantive rulemaking
authority
2. Lack of preconditions
to public enforcement
a. Allows public
enforcement without
requiring a showing of the
defendants intent or
knowledge
COMMENTS
Strong Me. Rev. Stat. Ann. tit. 5 207
Strong Me. Rev. Stat. Ann. tit. 5 207
Strong Me. Rev. Stat. Ann. tit. 5 207(2). The state has
adopted several regulations.
Strong
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
c. Civil penalty amount for
initial violations
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
a. Does not require
reliance
COMMENTS
62
Strong
Weak
Strong
Weak
Strong
Strong
Strong
2. Available remedies
a. Compensatory damages
b. Multiple or punitive
damages
c. Attorney fees for
consumers
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
63
b. Insurance
Strong
c. Utilities
Strong
64
Strong
e. Real estate
Strong
65
MARYLAND
Md. Code Ann., Com. Law 13-101 through 13-501 (West)
Maryland Consumer Protection Act
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
c. Provides the state agency
substantive rulemaking
authority
2. Lack of preconditions
to public enforcement
a. Allows public
enforcement without
requiring a showing of the
defendants intent or
knowledge
COMMENTS
Strong Md. Code Comm. Law 13-303 (unfair
practices)
Strong Md. Code Comm. Law 13-301(1), (3); 13-303
Strong Md. Code Comm. Law 13-204(12), 13-205.
State has adopted several regulations.
Strong
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
c. Civil penalty amount for
initial violations
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
a. Does not require reliance
COMMENTS
Mixed
66
Strong
Strong
2. Available remedies
a. Compensatory damages
b. Multiple or punitive
damages
c. Attorney fees for
consumers
Strong
Weak
Strong
Strong
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
Strong
b. Insurance
Weak
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
67
c. Utilities
Weak
Strong
e. Real estate
Mixed
68
MASSACHUSETTS
Mass. Gen. Laws Ann. ch. 93A, 1 through 11
Regulation of Business Practice and Consumer Protection Act
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
c. Provides the state agency
substantive rulemaking
authority
2. Lack of preconditions
to public enforcement
a. Allows public
enforcement without
requiring a showing of the
defendants intent or
knowledge
COMMENTS
Strong Mass. Gen. Laws Ch. 93A, 2(a)
Strong Mass. Gen. Laws Ch. 93A, 2(a)
Strong Mass. Gen. Laws Ch. 93A, 2(c) and state has
adopted a number of regulations.
Strong
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
c. Civil penalty amount for
initial violations
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
COMMENTS
Strong
Strong
69
or public impact
c. Does not require pre-suit
notice to the defendant
Weak
a. Compensatory damages
b. Multiple or punitive
damages
Strong
Strong
Strong
Strong
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
Strong
b. Insurance
Strong
c. Utilities
Strong
2. Available remedies
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
70
Strong
e. Real estate
Strong
steam.
The statute prohibits unfair and deceptive acts
and practice in the conduct of any trade or
commerce. Mass. Gen. Laws Ch. 93A, 2(a).
Trade and commerce are broadly defined to
include the advertising, the offering for sale,
rent or lease, the sale rent, lease or distribution of
any services and any property, tangible or
intangible, real, personal, or mixed, ... and any
other article, commodity, or thing of value
wherever situate. Mass. Gen. Laws Ch. 93A,
1(b). The Attorney General has adopted a debt
collection regulation under the statute: Mass.
Regs. Code tit. 940, 7.01 to 7.11.
Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 93A, 1(b) defines trade or
commerce to include real property.
71
MICHIGAN
Mich. Comp. Laws 445.901 through 445.922
Consumer Protection Act
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
c. Provides the state agency
substantive rulemaking
authority
2. Lack of preconditions
to public enforcement
a. Allows public
enforcement without
requiring a showing of the
defendants intent or
knowledge
COMMENTS
Strong See, in particular, Mich. Comp. Laws Ann.
445.903(1)(x), (z); other subsections are also
relatively broad.
Strong See, in particular, Mich. Comp. Laws Ann.
445.903(1)(s), (bb), (cc); other subsections are
also relatively broad.
Weak Mich. Comp. Laws Ann. 445.903(2) gives the
AG rulemaking authority, but forbids rules that
create additional unfair trade practices not
already enumerated.
Strong
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
c. Civil penalty amount for
initial violations
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
a. Does not require reliance
COMMENTS
Strong
72
Strong
Strong
2. Available remedies
a. Compensatory damages
b. Multiple or punitive
damages
c. Attorney fees for
consumers
Strong
Weak
Strong
Strong
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
Weak
b. Insurance
c. Utilities
Weak
Weak
Weak
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
73
collection, repossession)
e. Real estate
Weak
74
MINNESOTA
Minn. Stat. 8.31
Minn. Stat. 325F.67
False Statement in Advertising Act
Minn. Stat. 325F.68 through 325F.70
Prevention of Consumer Fraud Act
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
c. Provides the state agency
substantive rulemaking
authority
2. Lack of preconditions
to public enforcement
a. Allows public
enforcement without
requiring a showing of the
defendants intent or
knowledge
COMMENTS
Weak
Strong Minn. Stat. 325F.69(1)
Weak
Strong
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
COMMENTS
75
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
a. Does not require
reliance
Mixed
Weak
Strong
76
2. Available remedies
a. Compensatory damages
b. Multiple or punitive
damages
c. Attorney fees for
consumers
Strong
Weak
Strong
Strong
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
Strong
b. Insurance
Strong
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
77
c. Utilities
e. Real estate
78
MISSISSIPPI
Miss. Code Ann. 75-24-1 through 75-24-27
Consumer Protection Act
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
c. Provides the state agency
substantive rulemaking
authority
2. Lack of preconditions
to public enforcement
a. Allows public
enforcement without
requiring a showing of the
defendants intent or
knowledge
COMMENTS
Mixed
Strong
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
c. Civil penalty amount for
initial violations
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
a. Does not require
reliance
b. Does not require a
COMMENTS
79
Weak
Strong
Weak
Weak
Weak
2. Available remedies
a. Compensatory damages
b. Multiple or punitive
damages
c. Attorney fees for
consumers
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
b. Insurance
c. Utilities
80
e. Real estate
81
MISSOURI
Mo. Rev. Stat. 407.010 through 407.307
Merchandising Practices Act
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
c. Provides the state agency
substantive rulemaking
authority
2. Lack of preconditions
to public enforcement
a. Allows public
enforcement without
requiring a showing of the
defendants intent or
knowledge
COMMENTS
Strong Mo. Rev. Stat. 407.020(1)
Strong Mo. Rev. Stat. 407.020(1)
Strong Mo. Rev. Stat. 407.145. The state has adopted
a number of rules.
Strong
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
c. Civil penalty amount for
initial violations
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
COMMENTS
Strong
Strong
Strong
82
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
Strong
Strong
Strong
Strong
83
b. Insurance
c. Utilities
84
e. Real estate
85
MONTANA
Mont. Code Ann. 30-14-101 through 30-14-142
Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Act
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
c. Provides the state agency
substantive rulemaking
authority
2. Lack of preconditions
to public enforcement
a. Allows public
enforcement without
requiring a showing of the
defendants intent or
knowledge
COMMENTS
Strong Mont. Code 30-14-103
Strong Mont. Code 30-14-103
Strong Mont. Code 30-14-104(2). The state has
adopted several rules.
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
c. Civil penalty amount for
initial violations
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
a. Does not require
reliance
COMMENTS
Strong
86
Strong
Strong
Strong
Weak
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
Strong
b. Insurance
Weak
c. Utilities
Weak
Strong
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
87
e. Real estate
Strong
88
NEBRASKA
Neb. Rev. Stat. 59-1601 through 59-1623
Consumer Protection Act
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
c. Provides the state agency
substantive rulemaking
authority
2. Lack of preconditions
to public enforcement
a. Allows public
enforcement without
requiring a showing of the
defendants intent or
knowledge
COMMENTS
Strong Neb. Rev. Stat. 59-1602
Strong Neb. Rev. Stat. 59-1602
Weak
Strong
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
c. Civil penalty amount for
initial violations
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
a. Does not require
reliance
COMMENTS
89
Strong
2. Available remedies
a. Compensatory damages
b. Multiple or punitive
damages
c. Attorney fees for
consumers
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
Strong
Weak
Strong
Strong
Weak
90
b. Insurance
Strong
c. Utilities
Weak
91
Strong
e. Real estate
Mixed
92
NEVADA
Nev. Rev. Stat. 598.0903 through 598.0999
Trade Regulation and Practices Act
Nev. Rev. Stat. 41.600
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
COMMENTS
Weak
Strong Nev. Rev. Stat. 598.0915(15) defines deceptive
trade practices to include knowingly mak[ing]
any other false representation in a transaction;
598.0923(2) and (3) add knowingly ... (2)
fail[ing] to disclose a material fact in connection
with the sale or lease of goods or services and
(3) violat[ing] a state or federal statute or
regulation relating to the sale or lease of goods or
services.
Strong Nev. Rev. Stat. 598.0967(1). State has adopted
several rules.
Weak
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
c. Civil penalty amount for
initial violations
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
a. Does not require
COMMENTS
93
reliance
Strong
2. Available remedies
a. Compensatory damages
b. Multiple or punitive
damages
c. Attorney fees for
consumers
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
Strong
Weak
Strong
Strong
Strong
94
b. Insurance
Strong
c. Utilities
Strong
Strong
95
e. Real estate
Strong
96
NEW HAMPSHIRE
N.H. Rev. Stat. Ann. 358-A:1 through 358-A:13
Consumer Protection Act
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
c. Provides the state agency
substantive rulemaking
authority
2. Lack of preconditions
to public enforcement
a. Allows public
enforcement without
requiring a showing of the
defendants intent or
knowledge
COMMENTS
Strong N.H. Rev. Stat. 358-A:2
Strong N.H. Rev. Stat. 358-A:2
Weak
Strong
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
c. Civil penalty amount for
initial violations
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
a. Does not require
reliance
COMMENTS
97
Strong
Strong
2. Available remedies
a. Compensatory damages
b. Multiple or punitive
damages
c. Attorney fees for
consumers
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
Strong
Strong
Strong
Strong
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
Weak
b. Insurance
Weak
98
c. Utilities
Weak
Strong
e. Real estate
Strong
99
NEW JERSEY
N.J. Stat. Ann. 56:8-1 through 56:8-91 (West)
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
c. Provides the state agency
substantive rulemaking
authority
2. Lack of preconditions
to public enforcement
a. Allows public
enforcement without
requiring a showing of the
defendants intent or
knowledge
COMMENTS
Strong N.J. Stat. Ann. 56:8-2
Strong N.J. Stat. Ann. 56:8-2
Strong N.J. Stat. Ann. 56:8-4. The state has adopted a
number of regulations.
Strong
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
c. Civil penalty amount for
initial violations
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
COMMENTS
Strong
Strong
Strong
100
Strong
Strong
Strong
Strong
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
Strong
b. Insurance
Strong
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
101
c. Utilities
Weak
Strong
e. Real estate
Strong
102
NEW MEXICO
N.M. Stat. 57-12-1 through 57-12-22
Unfair Practices Act
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
c. Provides the state agency
substantive rulemaking
authority
2. Lack of preconditions
to public enforcement
a. Allows public
enforcement without
requiring a showing of the
defendants intent or
knowledge
COMMENTS
Strong N.M. Stat. Ann. 57-12-2(E), 57-12-3
Strong N.M. Stat. Ann. 57-12-2(D), 57-12-3
Strong N.M. Stat. Ann. 57-12-13. The state has
adopted several rules.
Mixed
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
c. Civil penalty amount for
initial violations
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
a. Does not require
reliance
COMMENTS
Strong
103
Strong
Strong
2. Available remedies
a. Compensatory damages
b. Multiple or punitive
damages
c. Attorney fees for
consumers
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
Strong
Strong
Strong
Strong
Strong
104
b. Insurance
Strong
105
c. Utilities
Strong
Strong
e. Real estate
Weak
106
107
NEW YORK
N.Y. Exec. Law 63(12) (McKinney)
N.Y. Gen. Bus. Law 349 and 350 (McKinney)
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
c. Provides the state agency
substantive rulemaking
authority
2. Lack of preconditions
to public enforcement
a. Allows public
enforcement without
requiring a showing of the
defendants intent or
knowledge
COMMENTS
Mixed
Strong
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
c. Civil penalty amount for
initial violations
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
a. Does not require reliance
COMMENTS
Strong
108
Weak
Strong
2. Available remedies
a. Compensatory damages
b. Multiple or punitive
damages
Strong
Mixed
Strong
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
Strong
Strong
109
b. Insurance
Mixed
c. Utilities
Strong
Strong
110
e. Real estate
Strong
111
NORTH CAROLINA
N.C. Gen. Stat. 75-1.1 through 75-35
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
c. Provides the state agency
substantive rulemaking
authority
2. Lack of preconditions
to public enforcement
a. Allows public
enforcement without
requiring a showing of the
defendants intent or
knowledge
COMMENTS
Strong N.C. Gen. Stat. 75-1.1(a)
Strong N.C. Gen. Stat. 75-1.1(a)
Weak
Strong
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
c. Civil penalty amount for
initial violations
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
a. Does not require
reliance
COMMENTS
112
Strong
Strong
2. Available remedies
a. Compensatory damages
b. Multiple or punitive
damages
c. Attorney fees for
consumers
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
Strong
Strong
Strong
Strong
113
a vitamin manufacturer).
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
Strong
b. Insurance
Strong
c. Utilities
Strong
Strong
e. Real estate
Strong
115
NORTH DAKOTA
N.D. Cent. Code 51-15-01 through 51-15-11
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
c. Provides the state agency
substantive rulemaking
authority
2. Lack of preconditions
to public enforcement
a. Allows public
enforcement without
requiring a showing of the
defendants intent or
knowledge
COMMENTS
Weak
Strong N.D. Century Code 51-15-02, 51-15-02.3.
Strong N.D. Century Code 51-15-05. State has
adopted one rule, regulating retail price
advertising.
Weak
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
c. Civil penalty amount for
initial violations
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
a. Does not require
reliance
b. Does not require a
showing of public interest
or public impact
c. Does not require presuit notice to the defendant
COMMENTS
Strong
2. Available remedies
116
a. Compensatory damages
b. Multiple or punitive
damages
c. Attorney fees for
consumers
Strong
Strong
Strong
Strong
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
Strong
b. Insurance
Strong
c. Utilities
Strong
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
117
Strong
e. Real estate
Strong
118
OHIO
Ohio Rev. Code Ann. 1345.01 through 1345.13 (West) Consumer Sales Practices
Act
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
c. Provides the state agency
substantive rulemaking
authority
2. Lack of preconditions
to public enforcement
a. Allows public
enforcement without
requiring a showing of the
defendants intent or
knowledge
COMMENTS
Strong Ohio Rev. Code 1345.02 (unfair acts and
practices), 1345.03, 1345.031 (unconscionable
acts and practices).
Strong Ohio Rev. Code 1345.02
Strong Ohio Rev. Code 1345.05(B)(2). The Attorney
General has adopted a number of rules.
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
c. Civil penalty amount for
initial violations
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
a. Does not require reliance
COMMENTS
Strong
119
Strong
Strong
2. Available remedies
a. Compensatory damages
Strong
b. Multiple or punitive
damages
c. Attorney fees for
consumers
Strong
Strong
Strong
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
Weak
b. Insurance
c. Utilities
Weak
Weak
Strong
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
Weak
120
121
OKLAHOMA
Okla. Stat. tit. 15, 751 through 763
Consumer Protection Act
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
c. Provides the state agency
substantive rulemaking
authority
2. Lack of preconditions
to public enforcement
a. Allows public
enforcement without
requiring a showing of the
defendants intent or
knowledge
COMMENTS
Strong Okla. Stat. Ann. tit. 15, 753, 752(14)
Strong Okla. Stat. Ann. tit. 15, 753, 752(13)
Weak
Strong
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
c. Civil penalty amount for
initial violations
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
a. Does not require
reliance
COMMENTS
Strong
122
b. Insurance
Strong
Weak
Strong
Strong
123
c. Utilities
124
e. Real estate
Strong
125
OREGON
Or. Rev. Stat. 646.605 through 646.656
Unlawful Trade Practices Law
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
COMMENTS
Strong Or. Rev. Stat. 646.607(1) (unconscionable
tactics)
Weak Or. Rev. Stat. 646.608(1)(u) prohibits any
other unfair or deceptive conduct in trade or
commerce, but Or. Rev. Stat. 646.608(4)
prohibits suit under this section unless the
Attorney General has first established a rule ...
declaring the conduct to be unfair or deceptive in
trade or commerce.
Strong Or. Rev. Stat. 646.608(4). The Attorney
General has adopted a number of rules.
Strong
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
c. Civil penalty amount for
initial violations
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
a. Does not require
reliance
COMMENTS
Mixed
126
Strong
Strong
2. Available remedies
a. Compensatory damages
b. Multiple or punitive
damages
c. Attorney fees for
consumers
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
b. Insurance
c. Utilities
Strong
Strong
Weak
Strong
127
Strong
e. Real estate
Strong
128
PENNSYLVANIA
73 Pa. Stat. Ann. 201-1 through 201-9.3 (West)
Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Law
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
COMMENTS
Mixed
Strong
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
c. Civil penalty amount for
initial violations
129
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
COMMENTS
Weak
Strong
Strong
2. Available remedies
a. Compensatory damages
b. Multiple or punitive
damages
c. Attorney fees for
consumers
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
Strong
Strong
Strong
Strong
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
Strong
b. Insurance
Strong
c. Utilities
Strong
Strong
Strong
130
RHODE ISLAND
R.I. Gen. Laws 6-13.1-1 through 6-13.1-27
Unfair Trade Practice and Consumer Protection Ac
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
c. Provides the state agency
substantive rulemaking
authority
2. Lack of preconditions
to public enforcement
a. Allows public
enforcement without
requiring a showing of the
defendants intent or
knowledge
COMMENTS
Strong R.I. Gen. Laws 6-13.1-1(6)(xiii), 6-13.1-2
Strong R.I. Gen. Laws 6-13.1-1(6)(xii), (xiii), (xiv),
6-13.1-2
Strong R.I. Gen. Laws 6-13.1-7(c). State has adopted
rules only regarding time shares and odometer
tampering.
Strong
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
c. Civil penalty amount for
initial violations
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
a. Does not require
reliance
b. Does not require a
showing of public interest
or public impact
c. Does not require presuit notice to the defendant
COMMENTS
Strong
2. Available remedies
131
a. Compensatory damages
b. Multiple or punitive
damages
c. Attorney fees for
consumers
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
Strong
Strong
Strong
Strong
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
Weak
b. Insurance
Weak
c. Utilities
Weak
132
Strong
e. Real estate
Weak
133
134
SOUTH CAROLINA
S.C. Code Ann. 39-5-10 through 39-5-160
Unfair Trade Practices Act
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
c. Provides the state agency
substantive rulemaking
authority
2. Lack of preconditions
to public enforcement
a. Allows public
enforcement without
requiring a showing of the
defendants intent or
knowledge
COMMENTS
Strong S.C. Code 39-5-20(a)
Strong S.C. Code 39-5-20(a)
Weak
Strong
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
c. Civil penalty amount for
initial violations
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
a. Does not require
reliance
COMMENTS
135
Weak
Strong
2. Available remedies
a. Compensatory damages
b. Multiple or punitive
damages
c. Attorney fees for
consumers
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
Strong
Strong
Strong
Weak
Strong
136
b. Insurance
Weak
c. Utilities
Strong
137
Strong
e. Real estate
Strong
138
SOUTH DAKOTA
S.D. Codified Laws 37-24-1 through 37-24-35
Deceptive Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Law
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
COMMENTS
Weak
Mixed
Weak
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
c. Civil penalty amount for
initial violations
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
a. Does not require
COMMENTS
Strong
139
reliance
Strong
2. Available remedies
a. Compensatory damages
b. Multiple or punitive
damages
c. Attorney fees for
consumers
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
Strong
Weak
Weak
Strong
Strong
140
b. Insurance
Strong
c. Utilities
Strong
Strong
141
e. Real estate
142
TENNESSEE
Tenn. Code Ann. 47-18-101 through 47-18-125
Consumer Protection Act
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
c. Provides the state agency
substantive rulemaking
authority
2. Lack of preconditions
to public enforcement
a. Allows public
enforcement without
requiring a showing of the
defendants intent or
knowledge
COMMENTS
Strong Tenn. Code 47-18-104(a)
Strong Tenn. Code 47-18-104(a)
Weak
Strong
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
c. Civil penalty amount for
initial violations
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
a. Does not require
reliance
COMMENTS
Strong
143
Strong
Strong
2. Available remedies
a. Compensatory damages
b. Multiple or punitive
damages
c. Attorney fees for
consumers
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
Strong
Strong
Strong
Weak
144
b. Insurance
c. Utilities
145
146
TEXAS
Tex. Bus. & Com. Code Ann. 17.41 through 17.63 (Vernon)
Deceptive Trade Practices--Consumer Protection Act
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
COMMENTS
Strong Tex. Bus. & Com. Code 17.45(5), 17.50(a)(3)
Mixed
Weak
Strong
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
c. Civil penalty amount for
initial violations
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
a. Does not require reliance
b. Does not require a
showing of public interest
or public impact
c. Does not require pre-suit
notice to the defendant
COMMENTS
Weak
Strong
Weak
147
2. Available remedies
a. Compensatory damages
b. Multiple or punitive
damages
c. Attorney fees for
consumers
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
Strong
Strong
Strong
Strong
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
Mixed
b. Insurance
Strong
c. Utilities
Strong
Strong
e. Real estate
Strong
148
UTAH
Utah Code Ann. 13-11-1 through 13-11-23
Consumer Sales Practices Act
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
c. Provides the state agency
substantive rulemaking
authority
2. Lack of preconditions
to public enforcement
a. Allows public
enforcement without
requiring a showing of the
defendants intent or
knowledge
COMMENTS
Strong Utah Code Ann. 13-11-5
Strong Utah Code Ann. 13-11-4(1)
Strong Utah Code Ann. 13-11-8. The state has
adopted several rules.
Strong
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
c. Civil penalty amount for
initial violations
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
a. Does not require
reliance
COMMENTS
149
or public impact
c. Does not require presuit notice to the defendant
Strong
2. Available remedies
a. Compensatory damages
b. Multiple or punitive
damages
c. Attorney fees for
consumers
Strong
Weak
Strong
Strong
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
Mixed
b. Insurance
Weak
c. Utilities
d. Post-sale acts (debt
collection, repossession)
Weak
Strong
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
150
e. Real estate
Strong
151
VERMONT
Vt. Stat. Ann. tit. 9, 2451 through 2480g
Consumer Fraud Act
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
c. Provides the state agency
substantive rulemaking
authority
2. Lack of preconditions
to public enforcement
a. Allows public
enforcement without
requiring a showing of the
defendants intent or
knowledge
COMMENTS
Strong Vt. Stat. Ann. tit. 9, 2453(a)
Strong Vt. Stat. Ann. tit. 9, 2453(a)
Strong Vt. Stat. Ann. tit. 9, 2453(c). The state has
adopted a number of rules.
Strong
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
c. Civil penalty amount for
initial violations
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
a. Does not require reliance
COMMENTS
Strong
152
Strong
Strong
2. Available remedies
a. Compensatory damages
b. Multiple or punitive
damages
c. Attorney fees for
consumers
Strong
Strong
Strong
Strong
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
Strong
b. Insurance
Weak
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
153
c. Utilities
Strong
Strong
154
e. Real estate
Strong
any way that would preclude suit based on postsale acts. In addition, the Vermont Attorney
General has adopted regulations under the
UDAP statute regarding debt collection
practices. Vt. Consumer Fraud Rules, Vt. Code
R. 06 031 004 CF 104.
Vt. Stat. Ann. tit. 9, 2451a(b) defines goods
and services to include real estate. 2453(e)
provides that substantive prohibitions apply to
real estate transactions. A number of Vermont
Supreme Court decisions have upheld the
application of the statute to landlord-tenant
transactions. See, e.g., Bisson v. Ward, 628 A.2d
1256 (Vt. 1993).
155
VIRGINIA
Va. Code Ann. 59.1-196 through 59.1-207
Consumer Protection Act
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
c. Provides the state agency
substantive rulemaking
authority
2. Lack of preconditions
to public enforcement
a. Allows public
enforcement without
requiring a showing of the
defendants intent or
knowledge
COMMENTS
Weak
Strong Va. Code Ann. 59.1-200(A)(14)
Weak
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
c. Civil penalty amount for
initial violations
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
a. Does not require
reliance
COMMENTS
Weak
156
Strong
Strong
2. Available remedies
a. Compensatory damages
b. Multiple or punitive
damages
c. Attorney fees for
consumers
Strong
Strong
Strong
Weak
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
Weak
b. Insurance
Weak
c. Utilities
Weak
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
157
e. Real estate
158
WASHINGTON
Wash. Rev. Code 19.86.010 through 19.86.920
Consumer Protection Act
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
c. Provides the state agency
substantive rulemaking
authority
2. Lack of preconditions
to public enforcement
a. Allows public
enforcement without
requiring a showing of the
defendants intent or
knowledge
COMMENTS
Strong Wash. Rev. Code 19.86.020
Strong Wash. Rev. Code 19.86.020
Weak
Strong
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
c. Civil penalty amount for
initial violations
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
COMMENTS
Strong
Weak
Strong
159
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
Strong
Strong
Strong
Strong
Mixed
160
b. Insurance
Strong
c. Utilities
Weak
161
Strong
e. Real estate
Strong
162
WEST VIRGINIA
W. Va. Code 46A-6-101 through 46A-6-110
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
c. Provides the state agency
substantive rulemaking
authority
2. Lack of preconditions
to public enforcement
a. Allows public
enforcement without
requiring a showing of the
defendants intent or
knowledge
COMMENTS
Strong W. Va. Code 46A-6-102(7) (prefatory
language), 46A-6-104
Strong W. Va. Code 46A-6-102(7) (prefatory
language), 46A-6-104
Strong W. Va. Code 46A-6-103, 46A-7-102(e). The
state has adopted several rules.
Strong
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
a. Does not require
reliance
COMMENTS
163
Strong
Weak
Strong
Weak
Strong
2. Available remedies
a. Compensatory damages
b. Multiple or punitive
damages
c. Attorney fees for
consumers
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
Strong
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
164
b. Insurance
Strong
c. Utilities
Mixed
165
e. Real estate
utilities activities.
Strong
W. Va. Code, 46A-2-124 129. See
Thomas v. Firestone Tire and Rubber Co., 164
W.Va. 763, 266 S.E.2d 905 (W.Va. 1980)
(interpreting W.Va. Code s 46A-2-122 to
include all debt collectors). See also State ex
rel. McGraw v. Telecheck Servs., Inc., 582
S.E.2d 885, 897 n. 20 (W. Va. 2003).
Undecided W. Va. Code 46A-6-102(6) defines trade or
commerce as involving goods or services,
and the private cause of action created by W.
Va. Code 46A-6-106(a) extends only to a
consumer who purchases or leases goods or
services. Courts in certain other states have
held that similar language encompasses real
estate transactions, but West Virginia courts
have not reached the question.
166
WISCONSIN
Wis. Stat. 100.18
Wis. Stat. 100.20 through 100.264
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
c. Provides the state agency
substantive rulemaking
authority
2. Lack of preconditions
to public enforcement
a. Allows public
enforcement without
requiring a showing of the
defendants intent or
knowledge
COMMENTS
Strong Wis. Stat. Ann. 100.20(1)
Strong Wis. Stat. Ann. 100.18(1) (false
advertisements)
Strong Wis. Stat. Ann. 100.20(2). The state has
adopted a number of rules.
Strong
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
c. Civil penalty amount for
initial violations
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
COMMENTS
167
Strong
Strong
Strong
2. Available remedies
a. Compensatory damages
Strong
b. Multiple or punitive
damages
c. Attorney fees for
consumers
Strong
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
Strong
Strong
Mixed
168
b. Insurance
Weak
c. Utilities
Strong
Weak
e. Real estate
Strong
169
170
WYOMING
Wyo. Stat. Ann. 40-12-101 through 40-12-114
Consumer Protection Act
PUBLIC ENFORCEMENT
1. Scope of statute
a. Broadly prohibits unfair
or unconscionable acts
b. Broadly prohibits
deceptive acts
c. Provides the state agency
substantive rulemaking
authority
2. Lack of preconditions
to public enforcement
a. Allows public
enforcement without
requiring a showing of the
defendants intent or
knowledge
COMMENTS
Strong Wyo. Stat. Ann. 40-12-105(a)(xv)
Strong Wyo. Stat. Ann. 40-12-105(a)(xv)
Weak
Weak
3. Available remedies
a. Equitable relief
b. Restitution for
consumers
c. Civil penalty amount for
initial violations
CONSUMER ACCESS TO
JUSTICE
1. Lack of preconditions
for a suit
a. Does not require
reliance
b. Does not require a
showing of public interest
or public impact
c. Does not require presuit notice to the defendant
COMMENTS
Weak
Strong
Weak
2. Available remedies
171
a. Compensatory damages
b. Multiple or punitive
damages
c. Attorney fees for
consumers
Strong
Weak
Weak
Strong
4. Statute coverage
a. Creditors and credit
Strong
b. Insurance
Weak
3. Class actions
a. Available under UDAP
statute and other law
172
c. Utilities
Strong
Strong
e. Real estate
Strong
173