SB827 Summary

• Prohibits merchants in Hawaii from requiring purchasers to pay an additional fee to obtain a repair, replacement, or refund for goods returned pursuant to a warranty policy.

• Defines "merchant in the State" as any merchant that is created under Hawaii law (including chapters 414, 414D, 415A, 425, 425E, or 428), authorized to transact business in Hawaii, or possesses a current unexpired Hawaii general excise tax license.

• Clarifies that return policies limiting refunds do not apply to goods damaged or defective prior to sale, unless the merchant was aware of and disclosed the damage or defect in writing before the sale.

• Takes effect upon approval with no retroactive application to rights, duties, penalties, or proceedings that existed before the effective date.