Alaska State Legislature
News from the House Majority

Jerry Ritter, House Majority Press Secretary
State Capitol
Juneau, AK 99801
Phone: (907) 465-3804
web site: http://www.akrepublicans.org
Actuality line: 1-800-478-6540

House Votes Fraud Protection for Elderly and Others

Bill Removes Barriers to Consumer Protection Against Fraud

For Immediate Release April 24, 1998 Contact: Rep. Fred Dyson at (907) 465-2199.

Juneau -- The Alaska House of Representatives Friday unanimously passed House Bill 203, which removes existing barriers to obtaining legal assistance for resolving or litigating small value fraud cases.

"This measure essentially addresses a need for consumer protection, not by funding a state agency, but by empowering individuals to deal with their own consumer issues," said Representative Fred Dyson (R-Eagle River). "By empowering individuals to deal with unlawful trade practices we will not only make Alaska a harsher environment for scam artists, but protect honest businesses as well," Dyson said.

"Education and protection from fraud has been a growing concern in recent years, especially among senior citizens," said Speaker of the House Gail Phillips (R-Homer). "But the number of consumers of all ages who are victims of unlawful acts and practices has been, an continues to, increase daily. This bill will be a valuable weapon for consumers in the fight against those who would victimize others," Phillips said.

HB 203 also allows for a fraud victim to obtain an injunction to stop fraudulent activity. It also penalizes frivolous lawsuits, provides for mediation, and allows the winning side to obtain attorney fees and court costs.

HB 203 received support from the Older Persons Action Group (OPAG) and the Alaska Commission on Aging. The House vote was 35-0.

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Broadcasters note: Comments are available on the House Majority Line at (800) 478-6540.
= Fred Dyson, 43 K