This bill mandates that retailers who offer digital coupons must provide a raincheck if the advertised goods or services are unavailable in stock. Specifically, if an item is not available as advertised, the retailer is required to issue a raincheck valid for at least 60 days, allowing consumers to purchase the same product or service at the same price or discount as stated in the digital coupon. The bill defines a "digital coupon" as any store coupon or discount available through a consumer's personal computing device, and a "raincheck" as a written statement that permits the purchase of the designated merchandise at the previously advertised price.
Additionally, the bill stipulates that violating these provisions constitutes an unlawful practice under New Jersey's consumer fraud act, which can result in significant penalties. First-time offenders may face fines up to $10,000, while subsequent violations can incur fines of up to $20,000. The Attorney General is also empowered to issue cease and desist orders, and violators may be subject to punitive damages, treble damages, and costs awarded to the injured parties. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.