For Immediate Release:
 February 02, 2009

Media Contact:
Sonya M. Perez
soperez@miamidade.gov
 305-375-4942



New Law Requires Dry Cleaning Businesses to Post Prices


(Miami-Dade County, FL) -- Price signs are going up in dry cleaning businesses throughout Miami-Dade as a result of an ordinance passed by the Board of County Commissioners in November.  Under the measure, dry cleaners are required to post their prices where customers can easily see them.

The measure makes it unlawful for the cleaner to charge a price that exceeds the applicable price on the sign, unless special handling of the clothing or fabric is necessary.  If the material requires special handling, the cleaner must explain to the customer the reason for the difference in price and provide the total amount.  Cleaning provided by means of a pick-up and drop-off delivery service is exempt from these price-posting requirements.

Cleaners who fail to post or maintain the price sign, or charge the customer more than the maximum price stated, may be fined $200.  Miami-Dade Consumer Services Department enforcement officers will be monitoring for compliance with this law.

The Miami-Dade Consumer Services Department also explains consumers' rights regarding issues involving dry cleaning businesses on its website - www.miamidade.gov/csd.  Among consumers' rights is protection against gender price discrimination, which occurs when a customer is charged a different price for a service based on the customer's gender.

To learn more about your rights as a consumer or to file a complaint about a dry cleaning business, contact the Miami-Dade Consumer Services Department at 305-375-3677 or consumer@miamidade.gov.

About CSD
The Miami-Dade Consumer Services Department (CSD) investigates and mediates consumer complaints, enforces the County's consumer protection laws and business regulations, and licenses certain businesses.  In addition, the department's Cooperative Extension Division provides technical assistance to commercial agricultural growers, backyard gardeners, homeowners, and manages youth and family development programs.  The department also educates consumers on issues that affect them and provides resources to the public to improve their quality of life.
 

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CONSUMER SERVICES DEPARTMENT