Friday, June 4, 2021 — Today, Gov. Ned Lamont signed into law House Bill 6100, An Act Concerning Department of Consumer Protection Licensing and Enforcement, Antitrust Issues and the Palliative Use of Marijuana, and Revisions to the Liquor Control Act, that makes several positive changes to consumer protection laws in the state.
“This wide-ranging bill makes many long-awaited improvements to the state’s consumer protection laws that will benefit both consumers and businesses,” said Consumer Protection Commissioner Michelle H. Seagull. “Many of these changes were delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and some – like the ability for restaurants to sell take-out cocktails – were added thanks to creative problem solving during the pandemic. In more ways than one, this bill serves our agency’s mission to protect consumers and create a fair marketplace for businesses.”
Among other things, the new law will:
- Redefine comprehensive background checks for Homemaker Companion Agencies and strengthen the background check requirements for HCAs, which will increase safety and security for consumers who hire homemaker companions
- Allow consumers to cancel their health club membership via email
- Require auto manufacturers to clearly and conspicuously label vehicles returned through the state’s Lemon Law Program as “Manufacturer Buyback-Lemon,” making it easier for consumers to identify a vehicle deemed a “lemon”
- Allow pharmacists to prescribe and distribute epinephrin auto-injectors (EpiPens)
- Make changes to permits available through the Liquor Control Act, and add a new seasonal outdoor permit
- Allow for the sale of take-out cocktails by restaurants
- Streamline and update DCPs Licensing and Enforcement powers in several areas, resulting in cost savings and better service for consumers and businesses
Information about HB 6100 can be found on the Connecticut General Assembly’s website.