ASSEMBLY CONSUMER AFFAIRS COMMITTEE

STATEMENT TO

ASSEMBLY, No. 2686

with committee amendments

STATE OF NEW JERSEY

DATED: MARCH 6, 2006

      The Assembly Consumer Affairs Committee reports favorably and with committee amendments Assembly Bill No. 2686.

      As amended, Assembly Bill No. 2686 makes it an unlawful practice for any person to sell a bicycle with a wheel diameter of 20 inches or less, which is equipped with a quick release wheel.

      The bill defines "quick release wheel" as a wheel which does not require the use of any tools to be removed from the bicycle.  Under the bill, wheels are not to be considered quick release wheels if:

· they are equipped or retrofitted with retainer devices; or

· require a significant level of dexterity to remove, so as to reasonably prevent removal by a child

      An unlawful practice under the Consumer Fraud Act is punishable by a monetary penalty of not more than $10,000 for a first offense and not more than $20,000 for any subsequent offense.  In addition, a violation can  result in cease and desist orders issued by the Attorney General, the assessment of punitive damages and the awarding of treble damages and costs to the injured.

COMMITTEE AMENDMENTS

      At the sponsor's request, the committee amended the bill to change the restriction to apply to bicycles with a wheel diameter of 20 inches or less.