Representations to the PublicPremium Coupons

Section § 17700

Explanation

This section defines several terms used in this chapter. "Coupon" refers to items like certificates or bottle caps that let someone get goods or services for free or at a discount. "Person" can mean an individual, a firm, or a corporation. "Issue" covers actions like using, distributing, or selling.

As used in this chapter:
(a)CA Business & Professions Code § 17700(a) “Coupon” includes certificates, cards, package labels, wrappers, can covers, bottle caps or other and similar devices, which entitle the person holding or delivering or surrendering them to have them exchanged for or redeemed in goods, wares, merchandise, or services of any kind free of charge or for less than the retail price of such goods, wares, merchandise, or services.
(b)CA Business & Professions Code § 17700(b) “Person” includes persons, firm, firms, corporation and corporations.
(c)CA Business & Professions Code § 17700(c) “Issue” includes use, distribute, give away, sell and furnish.
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Section § 17701

Explanation

According to this law, it's illegal for someone to give out coupons unless the coupon clearly states who will accept or redeem the coupon. There are three acceptable options: the person issuing the coupon, members of an organization that has been around for at least six months (with their address included), or a business that issues coupons for itself or others.

It is unlawful for any person to issue coupons unless there shall be specified in or upon such coupons, specifically or by class, the person by whom or with whom such coupon is exchangeable or redeemable, and unless such person specified is either:
(a)CA Business & Professions Code § 17701(a) The person issuing such coupon
(b)CA Business & Professions Code § 17701(b) Member or members of an association issuing such coupon which association shall be a bona fide organization in existence for a period of at least six months prior to issuing such coupon. The name and address by street and number of the principal place of business of the association shall also be specified in or upon such coupon
(c)CA Business & Professions Code § 17701(c) A person engaged in the business of issuing coupons for use or distribution by itself or by other persons.
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Section § 17701.5

Explanation

This law says it's illegal for anyone to advertise a price that involves using a manufacturer's coupon for a cash rebate unless they also clearly show the actual price the customer will pay before the rebate.

It is unlawful for any person to advertise a price that requires the buyer to send in a coupon to the manufacturer for a cash rebate, unless the price actually paid to the person selling the item is clearly and conspicuously advertised along with the final price with the coupon.
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Section § 17702

Explanation

If someone breaks any part of this chapter, they can be charged with a misdemeanor for each time they do it.

Any person violating this chapter is for each offense guilty of a misdemeanor.
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