Attorney General's News Release

September 5, 1996

Agreement with Missouri requires Packard Bell to disclose use of returned parts in new computers

Jefferson City, Mo. — Computer giant Packard Bell will pay more than $1.5 million to a group of 22 states, including Missouri, to resolve concerns over the selling of computers as new when they actually contain parts from previously sold computers, Attorney General Jay Nixon announced today.

“Consumers clearly deserve to know if a computer they purchase contains parts that aren't new,” Nixon said. “The reused parts may very well meet every industry standard, but consumers still are entitled to make a fully informed decision.”

Nixon said beginning Jan. 1, Packard Bell must place a prominent disclosure on cartons containing computers it sells as new but that may contain components from previously sold computers. The disclosure must inform the purchaser of the computer that it may include components from previously sold computers. Packard Bell is required to continue to cover such components by the original product warranty for new parts.

Packard Bell also will provide its retailers with in-store display materials disclosing any possible use of components from previously sold computers.

Missouri will receive $70,000 as its share of the $1,540,000 agreement reached with Packard Bell and 21 other states. Missouri's share will go to the Merchandising Practices Revolving Fund, which is used to pay for investigative costs and consumer education.

The other states involved in the agreement are Arizona, Arkansas, California, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Texas, West Virginia and Vermont.

Inquiries from consumers should be directed to consumer@ago.mo.gov or 1-800-392-8222 (from within Missouri) or 573-751-3321 (outside Missouri).

All media inquiries should be directed to Press Secretary John Fougere.

E-mail      Phone: 573-751-8844         Fax: 573-751-5818