Credit card surcharges

Dear Editor:I love supporting small business, especially local business. However, I've noticed many tack on surcharges or convenience fees when consumers pay with credit cards. I know this is against California state law according to civil code section 1748.1 Do they know it's against state law? Does the city of Downey do anything to protect its local consumers? I don't feel it is wise to carry cash during the holiday shopping season. I now avoid making any purchases if there are convenience charges imposed. Not because I cannot afford an additional 45 cents but because I feel the retailers are aware of their deceitful and unethical practices and continue to defraud their customers. We don't need business owners like this in Downey. Yulma Castro Downey

********** Published: December 20, 2012 - Volume 11 - Issue 36