Bahamian Consumers Empowered by New Consumer Protection measures says Davis Administration

Rashaed season

Staff Writer 

#TheBahamas, November 14, 2023 – Bahamian rights from now on will become more fortified following the tabling of the Consumer Protection Bill on November 2nd, 2023. This development is described as a transformative piece of legislation.

The confidence in the law hinges on the intention to ensure all Bahamians, said the Prime Minister, have a fair chance at success and happiness through economic justice.

“From families managing their budgets to retirees making significant purchases, this bill is a commitment to safeguarding consumer interests in an ever-evolving marketplace,” the office said.

Key features of the new bill includes:

• Expanded Complaint Mechanisms such as, allowing consumers to lodge complaints from anywhere, no geographical barriers to seeking justice and virtual testimonies for those unable to testify in-person.
• Rights for Consumers such as the right to receive details of goods being sold, right to measure and verify purchases goods, right to receive a receipt as proof of purchase and the right to a refund under certain conditions.
• Inclusivity which covers the protection of minors, people with disabilities and those unable to testify in person and virtual testimony option for increased accessibility.
• Fair Business Practices that are the licensing and regulation of all providers, Penalties for failure to comply, accountability for unfair, deceptive, or coercive practices and protection against pyramid schemes and dishonest sales tactics.
•  Empowering Local Businesses; leveling the playing field for small and large businesses and ensuring adherence to fair pricing and quality standards.

This new bill follows the revision of the previous bill.

Bahamian rights from now on will become more fortified following the tabling of the Consumer Protection Bill last week November 2nd, 2023.

This development was announced on The Office of the Prime Minister’s Facebook and is described as a transformative piece of legislation, a move to build a brighter Bahamas.