MN: New legislation in the Consumer Protection Act will prohibit expiry dates and fees to be charged on most gift cards that are bought by the public. The legislation, which takes effect on November 1, 2007, is designed to protect consumers.

Expiry dates can only be used on a gift card if the card is given away during a promotion for s specified good or service. While fees can no longer be applied if a card is not used within a certain time period, merchants can charge a fee to replace a lost or stolen card or to customize a card.

"Gift cards have become one of the most popular products in retail today," said Finance Minister Greg Selinger. "We have taken steps to protect consumers by prohibiting expiry dates and fees on most gift cards. The legislation will be in effect in time for the busy holiday season."

The new legislation requires companies to disclose all the limitations, conditions and restrictions the gift cards may have, as part of the legislation.

Companies that fail to comply with the new regulations face fines of $1000 - $5,000.

For more information on gift cards, contact the Consumers' Bureau of Manitoba at 204-945-3800 or (toll-free within Manitoba) at 1-800-782-0067.

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