Raised Bill No. 233 aims to strengthen consumer protections in the solar energy sector, particularly concerning home solicitation sales of residential solar photovoltaic systems. The bill introduces new exemptions for employees of solar contractors, allowing them to perform specific installation and maintenance tasks, and amends existing laws to clarify definitions related to consumer goods and services. Notably, it redefines "home solicitation sale" to include a broader range of transactions and specifies that solar sellers must provide consumers with a handbook detailing their rights and the nature of the sales process. The bill also establishes regulations for in-person solicitations, including identification requirements for sellers and restrictions on solicitation hours.

Additionally, the bill revises the Home Solicitation Sales Act by replacing the term "buyer" with "consumer" and outlining the conditions under which consumers can cancel sales agreements. It mandates that sellers must refund payments and return goods within specified timeframes after a cancellation notice. The legislation also prohibits sellers from including waivers of consumer rights in contracts and requires clear communication regarding cancellation rights. Furthermore, it imposes penalties for violations and mandates that residential solar lenders provide timely payoff statements to consumers. Overall, Raised Bill No. 233 seeks to enhance consumer protection and clarify the responsibilities of both sellers and consumers in solar energy transactions.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 42-136, 42-137, 42-138, 42-139, 42-140, 42-141