Tag Archives: California consumer protection

California

California Bans Loud Ads on Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, and HBO Max

In a move aimed at protecting viewers’ peace, California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed a new law that bans streaming services from airing advertisements that are louder than the regular programming. The legislation, which goes into effect on July 1, specifically targets major platforms such as YouTube, Netflix, Disney+, and HBO Max.

Story Highlights:

  • California law bans loud advertisements on streaming services starting July.

  • Applies to YouTube, Netflix, Disney+, and HBO Max.

  • Inspired by a newborn awakened by loud commercials.

  • Builds on existing FCC rules for television and cable.

  • Law ensures consistent audio levels for streaming platforms serving California.

The law comes after growing complaints from consumers disturbed by loud streaming ads. State Senator Tom Umberg, who sponsored the bill, shared the personal story behind the initiative. “The idea came from my legislative director,” Umberg said. “His newborn was frequently awakened by loud commercials, and that got us thinking about the impact on families across California.”

Federal regulations already address loud commercials on television and cable networks. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has, over the years, received thousands of complaints about excessively loud ads, many of which involved streaming services. “We have heard from viewers repeatedly,” an FCC spokesperson said in February. “These complaints show that streaming platforms need clearer rules, just like traditional TV.”

By signing this legislation, California is expanding protections for consumers into the growing world of online streaming. Companies serving audiences in the state will now be legally required to maintain consistent audio levels, ensuring ads do not disrupt programming or household routines.

This law also underscores the state’s leadership in consumer protection. With streaming now a primary source of entertainment, California lawmakers argue that modern regulations should reflect current viewing habits.

California’s new law marks a major step in regulating streaming ads, ensuring platforms like Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, and HBO Max keep commercials at safe, consistent volumes. Inspired by real-life disruptions, the legislation builds on FCC rules and protects viewers across the state. Starting July 1, loud streaming ads will no longer disturb households or daily routines.

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Lowe’s to Pay $1 Million Over Price Accuracy Violations Across California

Lowe’s has agreed to pay just over $1 million to settle a lawsuit accusing the home improvement giant of overcharging customers and engaging in false advertising, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office announced Wednesday. The civil complaint, filed by a coalition of California district attorney offices, alleged that Lowe’s charged some customers prices higher than the advertised or posted lowest prices.

Story Highlights

  • Lowe’s agrees to pay $1 million over price accuracy violations in California.

  • Allegations include overcharging and false advertising in ten counties.

  • Average overcharge recorded at 19.3 percent; 4.4 percent of items affected.

  • Settlement includes civil penalties, investigatory costs, and restitution for consumer protection.

  • Court injunction mandates a new price accuracy policy, internal audits, and a ban on weekend price hikes.

  • Complaint filed by six county district attorney offices; Lowe’s settles without admitting liability.

The violations were reported in ten counties across California between 2018 and 2022. According to authorities, the average overcharge per transaction was 19.3 percent, affecting 4.4 percent of items sold during that period.

As part of the settlement, Lowe’s will pay $1 million in civil penalties, along with investigatory costs and restitution aimed at supporting future consumer protection enforcement efforts.

A court injunction will also require Lowe’s to adopt a new price accuracy policy, conduct regular internal audits, and agree not to raise prices over weekends.

“This settlement protects shoppers and ensures fair pricing at checkout,” said Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman.

He added, “Equally important, it holds retailers accountable for illegal business practices, sending a clear message that deceptive pricing will not be tolerated in California.”

The complaint was jointly filed by the district attorney offices of Los Angeles, San Diego, Orange, Alameda, San Bernardino, and Sonoma counties. Despite the settlement, Lowe’s did not admit any liability.

Consumer advocates say that price accuracy remains a critical issue for shoppers, particularly in large retail chains where advertised prices may differ from checkout totals. Authorities hope the settlement will set a precedent for stricter monitoring of pricing practices in the retail sector.

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