H.R. 4803: Easy Returns Act

This bill, known as the Easy Returns Act, aims to simplify the process of returning physical goods purchased by consumers. Here are the key points:

Requirement for Return Labels

The bill mandates that sellers who employ at least 500 employees must include a return label with physical goods shipped to consumers. This return label should be appropriately addressed to facilitate the return of the product.

Exemptions

Not all sales are subjected to this requirement. The law does not apply to:

• Perishable goods that are not typically returned after delivery.
• Custom-made or personalized items that cannot be resold if returned.
• Instances where the seller offers an accessible and convenient return method, such as a free, scheduled pickup service for the customer.

Regulations and Enforcement

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is tasked with creating regulations to enforce this law within 180 days after its enactment. They will oversee compliance and ensure that any violation of the return label requirement is treated as an unfair or deceptive practice under existing laws.

Legal Framework

The enforcement of this bill will be in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission Act, meaning that the FTC will have the same powers and jurisdiction to enforce the new rules as they do for other matters under their purview. Violation of the return label requirement may result in penalties as outlined under the FTC Act.

Implementation Timeline

The provisions of this section will be applicable to sales occurring one year after the enactment of the bill.

Consumer Rights

The bill clarifies that it does not limit any existing rights or remedies available to consumers under any other laws.

Relevant Companies

• AMZN (Amazon.com, Inc.): As a major online retailer that sells a wide range of products eligible for return shipping, this legislation would require them to include return labels with every shipment fulfilling the employee threshold.
• WMT (Walmart Inc.): With their substantial operations and sales of physical goods, Walmart would need to ensure compliance with the requirement to include return labels for shipments to consumers.
• EBAY (eBay Inc.): As a platform where many individuals sell goods, eBay may be indirectly affected by this legislation as it influences policies sellers must follow.