Bill > SB1444

This bill amends existing law to create a specific warranty for hearing aids, which are a type of assistive device used to improve hearing. Previously, assistive devices sold at retail were covered by a general warranty that ensured they were fit for the buyer's particular needs and allowed for returns within 30 days if they weren't. This bill carves out hearing aids from that general provision and establishes a new, distinct warranty for them. Under the new warranty, hearing aids must also be accompanied by a written guarantee that they are fit for the buyer's needs, and buyers have 30 days from the date they are fitted with and take possession of the hearing aid to return it for adjustment, replacement, or a full refund. The bill also clarifies that if a hearing aid needs repair during this warranty period, the warranty period is suspended for the time the device is out of the buyer's possession. Importantly, this bill also removes a provision that allowed the board to adopt regulations defining express terms for hearing aid purchase agreements, indicating a shift towards a standardized, legislated warranty for these devices.