Flower Shop Network applauds the state of Tennessee in their latest legislation against deceptive Internet listings. Flower Shop Network along with our partners in the floral industry appreciate the work being done by the State of Tennessee toward strengthening consumer protection which includes the recent effort to widen an existing ban on deceptive telephone listings. Effective July 1, the state of Tennessee has broadened the current law to include a ban on deceptive Internet practices.

As of July 1, any company or companies that purposely misrepresent geographic location through misleading business name, telephone listings, dialing service or over the Internet with the intention of gaining an unfair competitive advantage is subject to a minimum penalty of $1000 per violation. Maximum penalty per violation is up to $5000.

Filing a complaint against a company suspected of fraudulent behavior of this nature involves delivering evidence along with a formal complaint to the office of Consumer Affairs for the State of Tennessee. If the evidence proves sufficient, penalties will be issued.

Presently 23 states authorize a ban against deceptive telephone listings. This legislative move by the State of Tennessee will add an extra strong arm of protection to consumers—one of which Flower Shop Network firmly approves. Only listing real local florists and flower shops in our directory, Flower Shop Network commends these Tennessee legislators for their efforts in preserving the integrity of honest businesspeople and consumers.

For more information about this Tennessee Legislation go to the Tennessee Legislation site and read HB3834 .