Other LanguagesSEATTLE – The Washington Attorney General’s Office filed suit today against an out-of-state advertising firm accused of using deceptive promotions to market new and used cars for Washington dealers. Automotive Consultant Group, based in Metairie, La., is accused of misrepresenting the nature of sales events, the financing available and the value of vehicles as well as using “simulated checks” and contest promotions that could mislead consumers.
Olympia - Attorney General Rob McKenna joined 29 other attorneys general nationwide today in urging the federal Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) to stop alcohol manufacturers from making misleading health-related statements when advertising alcoholic beverages that contain caffeine and other stimulants.
Attorney General Rob McKenna today released the first phase of Washington’s 2007 gas prices investigation. McKenna announced in April 2007 he was teaming up with Gov. Chris Gregoire and the state Department of Community, Trade and Economic Development to conduct the investigation based on strong public and private concern about escalating gas prices and the need for new research to help explain factors that influence Washington’s gas prices.
SPOKANE – Attorney General Rob McKenna announced an agreement with TruGreen, L.P. of Memphis, Tenn., that provides for refunds of over $83,000 to Washington consumers whose accounts TruGreen improperly debited, and for payment of over $50,000 in costs and attorney fees incurred by the state.
SPOKANE – Attorney General Rob McKenna today urged consumers to check the tires on their SUV, pickup or van in case they are among those being recalled. Attorneys General in 24 states issued consumer alerts and have formed a working group to look into concerns that an estimated 270,000 tires brought into the U.S. from China may be potentially unsafe.
SPOKANE – Attorney General Rob McKenna’s office today announced a settlement with Titleist Meats, LLC., concerning the company’s refund and cancellation policies. Titleist Meats has an office in Spokane and sells meat products door to door in Washington.
SEATTLE –Attorney General Rob McKenna today announced that Washington consumers who continued to receive bills for America Online (AOL) services after cancelling are eligible for refunds as part of a $3 million nationwide settlement with the Internet service provider.
The Washington State Department of Revenue has received reports that taxpayers have received automated phone messages from a party that identifies itself as the Department of Revenue. The phone message directs businesses to call a 1-800 number and have their tax numbers ready. When the call is made, a recording says the number has changed and directs the caller to call an international number beginning with the digits 101 for which charges apply.
LAKEWOOD – Attorney General Rob McKenna warned Washington residents that con artists are becoming increasingly skilled at customizing their pitches. Residents of Lakewood, Washington, have been targeted twice in recent weeks for identity theft and financial fraud scams. The cases appear to be unrelated, but show how far criminals will go in order to convince someone to send money or provide personal information.
SEATTLE – The owners of several Bellevue businesses that sent official-looking postcards to homeowners urging them to have their hot-water tanks or electrical panels inspected agreed to issue refunds to consumers as part of a settlement, Attorney General Rob McKenna announced today.