Current with changes from the 2024 Legislative Session
Section 14-1319 - Gift certificates(a)(1) In this section, "gift certificate" means a device constructed of paper, plastic, or any other material that is:(i) Sold or issued by a person for a cash value that can be used to purchase goods or services; or(ii) Issued as a store credit for returned goods.(2) "Gift certificate" does not include: (i) A prepaid telephone calling card;(ii) A prepaid technical support card;(iii) A prepaid card for Internet services;(iv) A coupon for discounted goods or services;(v) A gift certificate that is distributed to an individual under an awards, loyalty, or promotional program in which the recipient does not give money or value for the gift certificate; or(vi) A gift card that: 1. Is processed through a national credit or debit card service; and2. May be used to purchase goods or services from multiple unaffiliated sellers of goods or services.(b) A person may not sell or issue a gift certificate that, within 4 years after the date of purchase, is subject to expiration or a fee or charge of any kind.(c) Any term or condition concerning expiration or a fee or charge that takes effect more than 4 years after the date of purchase must be printed clearly in at least 10 point type in a visible place on:(1) The front or back of the gift certificate;(2) A sticker permanently affixed to the gift certificate; or(3) An envelope containing the gift certificate.(d) Unless the change benefits the consumer, a term or condition disclosed under subsection (c) of this section may not be changed after the date of purchase or issuance.(e) A gift certificate that is sold or issued in violation of this section shall be considered valid and may not be subject to expiration or any fee or charge.(f) A violation of any provision of this section:(1) Is an unfair or deceptive trade practice within the meaning of Title 13 of this article; and(2) Is subject to the enforcement and penalty provisions contained in Title 13 of this article, except § 13-411 of this article.