(WZZM)- More than three months after Michigan repealed its item pricing law, consumers are giving the changes mixed reviews. Some say it's confusing and they often have a difficult time finding how much they'll have to pay.
In March 2011, the Michigan Legislature passed the shopping Reform and Modernization Act. As of September 1, 2011, retailers no longer have to tag each item. But, they must clearly display the price. 13 On Your Side looked into the issue.
On Facebook, we first asked people what they thought about the law being repealed. We got over 131 comments. Some say are fine with the new law. But, most said they don't think the stores are doing a good enough job of displaying the prices on the shelves. Cindy writes, "I agree. There have been several times I have looked for the price and can't find it anywhere. I hate that law."
One of the offenders mentioned on Facebook was Meijer. With a cell phone camera, we checked out the Alpine Avenue location. The prices appeared to be easily seen below the product. We also looked at Best Buy, Bed Bath and Beyond, and Family Fare. All had prices clearly marked.
But, another offender mentioned on Facebook was Walmart. Again, armed with a camera, we went inside to check it out." Several grocery items didn't have prices. There was also clothing that wasn't marked.
It was a similar scenario at Toys 'R Us on Alpine Avenue. We found mismarked tags on the shelf and confusing prices. One product had a price tag $119 another was $99 and the shelf said $49.99.
Some might say go to the nearest price scanner and find out. On Facebook, Chuck writes, "Price scanners are the answer, not stickers. The law was way overdue." And most retailers would agree. Michigan was one of the last states to make changes.
But, still, retailers must display the price and if you find a store that has a problem, you should contact the Michigan Attorney General and file a complaint.
There is also some recourse if you're charged the wrong price at the checkout. It's called the "Scanner Error Bill of Rights." The seller must refund the difference between the amount charged and the price displayed. The consumer should get a "bonus" of ten times the difference, up to $5.
By Sarah Sell