Legislative changes introduced today, April 8, provide more protection for seniors and other consumers from misleading or aggressive door-to-door sales.

The amendments to the Direct Sellers’ Regulation Act will address long-standing issues and recent complaints.

“The changes provide greater consumer protection for door-to-door sales and will give us flexibility to address emerging issues as they come up,” said Service Nova Scotia Minister Mark Furey. “Our ability to act quickly and publicize non-compliance is important to protect consumers.”

The amendments will:
— increase penalties to a minimum of $500 and a maximum of $25,000 for individuals, and $300,000 for corporations
— limit continuous service contracts to two years
— allow government to disclose those breaking the rules to quickly address emerging and unforeseen issues
— allow consumers to cancel continuing-service contracts at any time
— modernize and align the act with legislation in other provinces

The act was introduced in 1975 and has not been amended since 1999. It provides rights to consumers who make direct-sale purchases. Consumers have a 10-day “cooling off” period that allows them to cancel a contract for a refund.

People should always ask for proof that salespeople have a permit, or contact the Better Business Bureau.

Information on how to avoid scam or deal with aggressive sales practices is available at http://novascotia.ca/snsmr/access/individuals/consumer-awareness.asp .

Source: Release