NJ Lawmaker Moves To Ban Unsolicited Checks

One New Jersey lawmaker wants to stop a marketing technique that he believes is deceptive.

Assemblyman Paul Moriarty recently introduced legislation that would bar businesses from mailing consumers unsolicited checks that, once cashed or deposited, enroll them in costly programs.

The measure (A-4295) will likely be considered by the Consumer Affairs committee, although a hearing date has been scheduled.

If it becomes law, no person nor business would be allowed to send consumers unsolicited checks which, upon being redeemed, would automatically charge the recipient a fee or enroll them in a club, service plan or other continuing agreement.

However, checks related to legitimate banking services or stemming from a pre-existing and direct business-to-consumer relationship would be permitted.

Copyright 2009 The Associated Press.