SAN DIEGO COUNTY, Calif. — The new year is bringing a series of new California laws aimed at protecting consumers, especially when it comes to everyday purchases and financial transactions.
From food delivery apps to overdraft fees and used car purchases, the changes are designed to give consumers more transparency, and in some cases, more money back in their pockets.
Food delivery apps must offer refunds
If you use food delivery apps, a new law known as Assembly Bill 578 requires platforms to refund customers for wrong or missing items starting January 1.
To make sure those refunds actually happen, the law also requires companies to make a real person available to help resolve issues if an automated system can’t handle the complaint. Customers will also be able to adjust their tips, and apps must clearly disclose the cost of food, service fees, and tips upfront.
Overdraft fees capped at credit unions
For those who bank with credit unions, Senate Bill 1075 brings new limits on overdraft fees. The law caps those fees at $14, reducing the financial hit consumers can face when their account balance dips too low…