Legal Question in Consumer Law in Washington

Supermarket Price Scanner Errors

I recall reading at the WA.gov AG page that if a supermarket price scanner rings up the incorrect price that the item that was rang up wrong can not be charged for. In other words it would be a free item. I have had a problem with a serious over charge for an items at a local Fred Meyer. They have declined to refund my money even though I pointed out the law in this regard. I have been told that I would need to ''provide a copy of the law'' to them in order to be refunded. I know I read about the law on the WA State AGO web site, but since they have revamped it I have been unable to find the law. Any help is greatly appreciated.


Asked on 11/30/04, 2:29 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Elizabeth Powell ELizabeth Powell PS Inc

Re: Supermarket Price Scanner Errors

Washington law can be found on line at www.access.wa.gov; go to the legislature's home page, and from there to the RCW's. You can also access the WAC (Washington Administrative Code)from there as well.

Off the top of my head, I am unaware of a law requiring the retailer to give you the item if the scan was incorrect; I am however sure that there is some penalty for incorrect scans. Seems like it would be easier to alert the management of the discrepancy between the scanned price and the advertised or marked price.

The AG is on line as well. You can write a complaint and file it on line. Good luck - Powell

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Answered on 11/30/04, 10:57 am


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