Public input sought on door-to-door soliciting

REGINA Have some thoughts on door-to-door selling?

The Saskatchewan government is seeking input from consumers, stakeholders, business people and interested citizens about the repeal and replacement of the Direct Sellers Act.

The act regulates individuals who solicit the purchase of goods and/or services door-to-door or by telephone.

Key issues for discussion include: Who should be considered a direct seller; whether the current exemptions from licensing should be maintained; whether there should be specific provisions relating to gas retailers who direct sell to consumers; what activities should be included as direct selling; and cancellation rights.

According to the government’s discussion paper, a number of “internal issues” are expected to be resolved when the regulations are addressed. They include: The need for a mandatory criminal record check for a sole proprietor, any partner in a partnership, or any officer of the corporation that is a direct seller; a move to continuous licensing; a requirement that a licensee file an annual report to outline whether there has been a change in circumstances from the previous year; and giving the registrar the authority to attach conditions to a licence on reinstatement, imposed at the time the licence is suspended.

The government wants responses by Nov. 15 . They can be sent to Mary Ellen Wellsch by email at Maryellen.Wellsch@gov.sk.ca; by mail to Mary Ellen Wellsch Senior Crown Counsel, Legislative Services Branch Ministry of Justice 800 — 1874 Scarth Street Regina, SK S4P 4B3 or by fax at 306-787-9111.