Definitions
This section explains what certain words mean when used in Missouri's consumer protection law. It defines things like what counts as an 'advertisement,' what 'merchandise' means, and who counts as a 'person' under the law. These definitions help make sure the law is applied the same way every time.
407.010. Definitions. — As used in sections 407.010 to 407.130, the following words and terms mean:
(1) "", the attempt by , , , circulation, or any other means to induce, directly or indirectly, any person to enter into any obligation or acquire any or interest in any ;
(2) "", the original or a copy of any book, , report, memorandum, paper, communication, tabulation, map, chart, photograph, mechanical transcription, or other document or recording, wherever situated;
(3) "Examination of documentary material", the inspection, study, or copying of such , and the taking of or in respect to any documentary material or copy thereof;
(4) "Merchandise", any objects, wares, goods, commodities, , or services;
(5) "Person", any or his , , firm, for-profit or , whether domestic or foreign, company, foundation, trust, or association, and any , employee, salesman, partner, officer, , member, stockholder, associate, or thereof;
(6) "Sale", any sale, , offer for sale or lease, or attempt to sell or lease merchandise for cash or on ;
(7) "Trade" or "commerce", the advertising, offering for sale, sale, or distribution, or any combination thereof, of any services and any property, tangible or , real, personal, or mixed, and any other article, , or thing of value wherever situated. The terms "trade" and "commerce" include any trade or commerce directly or indirectly affecting the people of this state.
Tap any gold-underlined word to see what it means.
Red section numbers link to that law.
Source & history notes
(L. 1967 p. 607 § 1, A.L. 1973 H.B. 55, A.L. 1986 S.B. 685) Effective 5-01-86 (2003) Merchandising Practices Act applies to deceptive schemes conducted by out-of-state businesses and involving out-of-state consumers. State ex rel. Nixon v. Estes, 108 S.W.3d 795 (Mo.App.W.D.). (2004) Medical goods and services constitute "merchandise" within definition of section. Freeman Health System v. Wass, 124 S.W.3d 504 (Mo.App.S.D.).
Legal information, not legal advice. Always confirm with the official source at revisor.mo.gov.