SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – As the prices of everyday essentials continue to rise across the country, State Rep. Lilian Jiménez, D-Chicago, is working to provide some immediate relief to Illinois customers by passing a new measure that ensures promotions advertised by businesses are accessible to all.
“The people of Illinois deserve to receive the price that businesses are advertising,” said Jiménez. “This legislation saves Illinoisans money by guaranteeing equitable access to digital promotions. Individuals who have trouble navigating technology or lack access to it should not have to pay more than what was promised.”
Grocery stores, drug stores, and other businesses increasingly entice customers with advertised savings that require apps and digital coupons, which are often unreliable and require smartphone access. Customers have faced difficulty locating and “clipping” advertised deals on the app, connectivity issues in large stores, and barriers for those without smartphone access.
In order to reduce these barriers, Jiménez supported House Bill 45, which requires retailers to have the same coupons that are listed online and in apps in store as a physical coupon. The paper coupons should be located in the front service desk or throughout the store in different locations.
“With the rising cost of groceries and household essentials, families are stretching every dollar just to get by,” said Jiménez. “When there’s even the slightest opportunity to save, they deserve to access it, regardless of whether they have a smartphone or an app. This legislation ensures businesses provide non-digital ways to redeem those promotions.”
House Bill 45 now moves to the Senate for further consideration.
