Commerce and Insurance

Division of Consumer Affairs Warns of Price Gouging

NASHVILLE – In the wake of the harsh winter weather earlier this week that resulted in power outages in parts of Kentucky and Tennessee, some consumers have expressed concerns about surges in kerosene prices at retail outlets.

“Tennessee law is quite clear about this,” says Tennessee Consumer Affairs Director Mary Clement. “Retail outlets that unreasonably or excessively raise the price of commodities during an emergency or crisis in order to take advantage of consumers are price gouging, which is illegal.”

Division of Consumer Affairs Warns of Ads with Fraudulent Claims

NASHVILLE-Lose weight, stop smoking, be physically fit! If these are your resolutions for the new year, read on!

The Tennessee Division of Consumer Affairs warns consumers to beware of ads that promise either rapid weight loss without dietary changes or exercise, or so-called miracle cures. Consumers, especially those with existing health problems, should always check with a healthcare professional to ensure products have been validated and wouldn’t jeopardize their health.

Fire Marshal Wants Working Smoke Alarms in Every TN Home

NASHVILLE - The Tennessee Fire Safety Inspector’s Association and Fire Team USA are sponsoring today’s The Great Debate 2008 in Franklin. The daylong, fire-prevention event will include a discussion about which type of smoke detector is most effective.

The Tennessee State Fire Marshal, Leslie A. Newman, is reminding Tennesseans that a working smoke alarm can at least double the chances of surviving a residence fire. Newman urges all Tennesseans to have working smoke alarms in their homes.

Start New Year with Resolution to Practice Fire Safety

NASHVILLE-The standby new year’s resolutions are well-worn and familiar: quit smoking, lose weight, travel, meet that special someone. The State Fire Marshal’s office wants Tennesseans to add practicing fire safety to that list – and wants them to stick with it.

Fire Marshal's Office Issues Warnings on Christmas Trees

NASHVILLE-The State Fire Marshal’s Office is reminding Tennesseans with natural, fresh-cut Christmas trees in their homes to take care to keep them in water, in light of the fire risk posed when they are allowed to dry out.

Commissioner Newman Elected to National Insurer Post

NASHVILLE-Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance Commissioner Leslie A. Newman has been elected Secretary-Treasurer of the National Insurance Producer Registry (NIPR), a nonprofit affiliate of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC). 

State Urges Residents to Review Insurance Coverage

NASHVILLE-The holiday season increases the chance for mishaps, as more people attend gatherings and travel. Accidents might be humorous in movies such as “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” and “A Christmas Story.” But they are not funny in real life. The Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance suggests you take time to review how your insurance covers mishaps in the home and when traveling.

Snag These Tips for Purchasing Gift Cards for the Holiday Season

NASHVILLE-  What typically is the year’s busiest shopping season is upon us. And, even with a national economic downturn sapping consumer confidence, gift cards are a sure bet to remain hot sellers. You can find department stores’ gift cards not only in the chains’ retail locations but also being sold in grocery stores and drugstores. Many consumers see gift cards as reliable standbys for friends and relatives who seem to already have everything. For them, a gift card from a favorite store can be ideal. 

But, despite all the conveniences of gift cards, savvy consumers should take steps to ensure stores’ fine-print policies don’t translate into buyer’s remorse during the holiday season:

State Reminds Auction Rate Securities Investors of Buyback Offers

NASHVILLE - As state securities regulators continue their efforts to provide relief to investors who have seen their funds frozen in the auction rate securities (ARS) market, the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance is reminding ARS investors of their redemption opportunities, which were reached through settlements between securities regulators and multiple Wall Street firms. 

Fire Marshal Asks Residents to Prepare Home for Cold Weather

NASHVILLE-Tennessee Fire Marshal Leslie A. Newman wants to remind Tennesseans to keep safe and warm as winter sets in across the state. But she urges residents to be cautious in the use of alternative heat sources.

Syndicate content Get RSS News Feed