This article is split into three parts. The first part will explain California law as it applies to surcharges for the use of credit cards. In the second part (found here), I will explore the loopholes embedded into the law and explain why this law is actually bad for consumers and retailers alike. In the final part, I will explain why this law is poised to be stricken as unconstitutional.
Retailers Beware, Charging Extra Fees to Consumers for Using Credit Cards Is Illegal
Know What You Don't Know
Several years ago we all made fun of Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld because he talked about things we know, things we know that we don't know and things we don't know that we don't know. Once you get past all of the tongue twisting, however, he was making a lot of sense. His comments are a good lesson for all of us: know what you don't know and make sure that the lawyer you hire has the necessary skills and experience to do the job.
