California · Business and Professions Code - BPC

BPC §17537.11: (a) It is unlawful for any person to offer a coupon that is in any manner untrue or misleading.

Misdemeanor

What this law says, in plain English

It is unlawful to offer coupons that are untrue or misleading, or to offer deceptive 'free' coupons requiring payment when the seller's majority sales involve such coupons.

Read the full statutory text

(a) It is unlawful for any person to offer a coupon that is in any manner untrue or misleading. (b) It is unlawful for any person to offer a coupon described as “free” or as a “gift,” “prize,” or other similar term if (1) the recipient of the coupon is required to pay money or buy any goods or services to obtain or use the coupon, and (2) the person offering the coupon or anyone honoring the coupon made the majority of his or her sales in the preceding year in connection with one or more “free,” “gift,” “prize,” or similarly described coupons. (c) For purposes of this section: (1) “Coupon” includes any coupon, certificate, document, discount, or similar matter that purports to entitle the user of the coupon to obtain goods or services for free or for a special or reduced price. (2) “Sale” includes lease or rent.

Verify at the official source: California legislative text

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This page is legal information, not legal advice. Code text is sourced from official publications and may lag amendments — always confirm at the official source linked above. Plain-English summaries and relationship data are AI-derived and reviewed on an ongoing basis; verify with a licensed attorney before acting.