August 28, 2003

WARNING:
CONSUMER AFFAIRS URGES NEW YORKERS NOT TO PAY FOR FREE CON EDISON FOOD SPOILAGE REIMBURSEMENT FORMS

TThe New York City Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA) is urging New York City residents not to buy Con Edison forms for food spoilage reimbursement from online sites like eBay or local merchants. The forms, which are available for free on Con Edison's web site, are for residents wishing to file claims up to $350 for food spoilage due to a power outage. However, because Con Edison contends they are not responsible for legal claims stemming from the August 14 blackout, consumers are not guaranteed a reimbursement.

"Don't pay for what you can get for free," said DCA Commissioner Gretchen Dykstra. "And remember, it's not at all clear that Con Ed will owe anything to anyone."

DCA enforces the City's Consumer Protection Law and other related laws at thousands of businesses throughout New York City. Fostering a marketplace where consumers are protected and businesses can thrive, DCA licenses more than 60,000 businesses in 55 different categories citywide. Through free community seminars, licensing forums, and other informational materials, DCA educates consumers and businesses alike about their rights and responsibilities. For more information, call 311 or visit DCA online at www.nyc.gov/consumers.