Good news for NM consumers! The Attorney General has published new rules which protect consumers from contracts that “automatically renew” without giving proper advance notice.

The Consumer Protection Division acted due to the large number of complaints received about health club, satellite TV, cellular and home alarm contracts.

The Armed Response Team never requires long-term contracts because we believe the customer should always be in control. However, we want all of our customers to be aware of this ruling in case you or someone you know get trapped by the fine print of an automatic renewal clause.

In summary, companies must now provide written notice to their customers 30 to 60 days before the contract automatically renews. This notice must be in clear, conspicuous “10 point” type – either on the first page of the monthly statement or by certified mail.

This new ruling went into effect on September 15, 2009 and has a number of other important protections. To read the full ruling go to: http://nmcpr.state.nm.us/nmac/parts/title12/12.002.0011.htm or call our office and we’ll be pleased to email it to you.