Consumer Controversies Resolution Act

Summary

Consumer Controversies Resolution Act - Declares that it is the purpose of this Act to assure all consumer controversy resolution mechanism which is effective, fair, inexpensive, and expeditious, and to facilitate better representation of consumer interests. Defines the terms used in this Act. Directs the Federal Trade Commission to establish a Bureau of Consumer Redress. Directs the Commission to perform enumerated duties, including: (1) allocate and pay to the States funds appropriated for financial assistance to States under cooperative agreements; (2) review the operation of each State plan for the resolution of controversies involving consumers which has been approved under this Act; and (3) articulate and evaluate the goals for a model State system of consumer controversy resolution. Provides for the allocation to States of monies appropriated for financial assistance pursuant to this Act. Specifies purposes for which such funds may be used, including public education and publicity relating to the availability and proper use of consumer controversy resolution mechanisms and settlement procedures. States that, by the end of six months after the date of enactment of this Act, a State may submit a plan in accordance with this Act for the resolution of controversies involving consumers. Calls for the review of such plans periodically, but not less than once every two years, by the Bureau. Provides that a consumer controversy resolution mechanism is responsive to national goals if: (1) procedures are easy and inexpensive for the citizens and free from technicalities; (2) it is designed so that appropriate personnel can be provided consumers in pursuing claims and collecting judgments; (3) it is open or available for the adjudication or resolution of controversies during hours and on days that consumers and other citizens can easily utilize it; (4) it has a reasonable jurisdictional limit; and (5) it is governed by procedures which are published and approved by the Administrator. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as are necessary, not to exceed $500,000 for fiscal year 1974; $30,000,000 for fiscal year 1975; and $60,000,000 for fiscal year 1976. Provides that whenever the Bureau submits any legislative recommendations, proposed testimony, or comments on legislation to the President or the Office of Management and Budget, it shall concurrently transmit a copy thereof to the Congress.

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Documents

2 official files

• Reported to Senate with amendment(s)

  summary · EN · 23 September 1974

  Open at official source

• Introduced in Senate

  summary · EN · 31 January 1974

  Open at official source

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