Consumer protection: other; amendments to the Michigan consumer protection act; provide for. Amends title & secs. 2, 4, 5, 10 & 15 of 1976 PA 331 (MCL 445.902 et seq.) & adds secs. 4a, 5a, 8a & 21a.
What changed between versions
Added new definitions for 'business opportunity', 'elder', 'nonprofit organization', 'performing group', 'recording group', 'sound recording', 'trade or commerce', and 'vulnerable adult' to clarify what is covered under the act.
Modified the definition of 'trade or commerce' to clarify exclusions for franchise sales while explicitly including pyramid promotional schemes.
Created a new consumer protection and antitrust revolving enforcement and education fund to finance enforcement activities and public education.
Added new section 5a establishing higher civil fines ($25,000 to $50,000) for violations targeting elders or vulnerable adults.
Added new section 8a granting the attorney general and prosecuting attorneys authority to issue written demands for information and documentary material related to investigations.
Established a fund that receives deposits of attorney fees, costs, damages, and refunds from successful enforcement actions, with specific allocation percentages based on amounts.
Added new requirements for written demands in investigations, including descriptions of violations, timeframes for compliance, and procedures for seeking protective orders.