New Jersey legislature considers streamlining consumer rebates

A measure aimed at keeping manufacturer rebate checks out of the trash is making its way through the New Jersey legislature.

A measure aimed at keeping manufacturer rebate checks out of the trash is making its way through the New Jersey legislature.

The bill would require manufacturers send the checks in a sealed envelope and be clearly identified as a rebate.

Assembly sponsor John Burzichelli (D-Paulsboro) says some people have tossed out a rebate check because it looked like junk mail.

“There are indications that, if they sent you the check and it got mixed up with some other things and you didn’t cash it,” says Burzichelli, “the rebate company would not be disappointed that you didn’t cash the check.”

But New Jersey Retail Merchants Association President John Holub is concerned that the legislation could lead to fewer rebates.

“It makes New Jersey different than our surrounding neighbors,” says Holub. “Because of that, some people just might no longer participate, and these rebates might not be available to the consumer.”

The measure has been approved by the Assembly. It has not yet been introduced in the Senate.