Consumer Rights & Responsibilities

Consumer Rights & Responsibilities1

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LifeSmarts is a program of the National Consumers LeagueThe best consumer is the educated consumer.3

The Consumer Bill of Rights In 1962, President John Kennedy spoke to Congress. This call to action resulted in the Consumer Bill of Rights.

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John Kennedy, 19625

The Right to SafetyProtection against dangerous goods and services.6Safety ResponsibilitiesUse products and services appropriately and for their intended purposeRead and follow directions

7Lets talk about itAll state have seatbelt laws and most have helmet laws. Why does the government have an interest in requiring individuals to use these safety devices?8

The Right to ChooseA selection of options when purchasing goods and services

9Choice ResponsibilitiesUse purchasing power to promote fair business practicesSupport laws that encourage fair competition in the marketplace10

Lets talk about itHow does advertising increase the consumer right to choose?How does advertising decrease the consumer right to choose?11

The Right to Be InformedReliable sources of information about product or service performance, quality and price12

Informed ResponsibilitiesSeek information before purchasingUse information to make decisions about where and what to purchase13

Lets talk about itThere are many sources of consumer information. When a consumer goes online, what criteria should be used to identify reliable, honest product information and ratings?14

The Right to Be HeardVoice complaints about products, services and business practicesExpect to have your concerns addressed by business and government15

Being Heard ResponsibilitiesSpeak up when you have a problem or concernSupport rules and regulations that are consumer friendly16

Lets talk about itReactThe right to be heard will disappear if consumers do not use their voices.17

The United NationsGuidelines for Consumer ProtectionIn 1985 the United Nations Assembly adopted eight basic consumer rights. These included the original four consumer rights signed into law by JFK, plus four additional rights intended to strengthen consumer protection worldwide.18

The Right to RedressFair settlement of legitimate disputes19

Redress ResponsibilitiesAsk for reasonable and fair settlement

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Lets talk about itConsumer complaints are sometimes linked with frustration and anger. Why is it important that consumers not use anger when trying to settle a dispute or complaint?21

The Right to a Healthy EnvironmentLive and work in an environment that does not threaten well-being Business should not pollute the air, earth or water22

Environment ResponsibilitiesBecome aware of environmental concernsSpeak out for the environmentReduce individual waste and pollution23

Lets talk about itReactThis amendment should be added to the Bill of Rights: Americans have the right to live and work in an environment that does not threaten the well-being of present and future generations.24

The Right to ServiceBe treated with respectBusiness responds appropriately to consumer needs25

Service ResponsibilitiesBe polite and respectful in returnCustomer loyalty show appreciation by frequenting businesses that provide good service26

Lets talk about itConsumers have the right to expect courteous service while in a store or other business establishment. How is a teenagers customer service experience different from an adults?27

The Right to Consumer EducationSeek information and skills needed to make informed decisionsMonitor new rules and regulations for the marketplace28

Consumer Education ResponsibilitiesFind and use consumer informationStay informed about marketplace rules and regulationsCarefully evaluate consumer choices29

Lets talk about itReactAs the marketplace becomes more complex, consumer education is essential to navigate and understand consumer rights and responsibilities.30

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LifeSmartsAn educational program teaching teens and tweens important real-life knowledgeA competition where students compete online and in-personA teaching toolbox. Check out our resourcesAn opportunity for students to gain leadership skills, and fulfill community service requirementsA partner with national groups such as FBLA and FCCLA

Learn it. Live it.

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