MLM Law: Michigan Laws of Unfair Practices
445.903 Unfair, unconscionable, or deceptive methods, acts, or practices in conduct of trade or commerce; rules. [M.S.A. 19.418(3)]
Sec. 3. (1)Unfair, unconscionable, or deceptive methods, acts, or practices in the conduct of trade or commerce are unlawful and are defined as follows:
(a)Causing a probability of confusion or misunderstanding as to the source, sponsorship, approval, or certification of goods or services. (w)Representing that a consumer will receive a rebate, discount, or other benefit as an inducement for entering into a transaction, if the benefit is contingent on an event to occur subsequent to the consummation of the transaction.
FRANCHISE INVESTMENT LAW
Act 269 of 1974
AN ACT to regulate the offer, sale, and purchase of franchises; to prohibit fraudulent practices in relation thereto; to prohibit pyramid and chain promotions; to impose regulatory duties upon certain state departments and agencies; and to provide penalties.
445.1528 Pyramid or chain promotion or distribution. [M.S.A. 19.854(28)]
Sec. 28. (1)A person may not offer or sell any form of participation in a pyramid or chain promotion. A pyramid or chain promotion is any plan or scheme or device by which (a) a participant gives a valuable consideration for the opportunity to receive compensation or things of value in return for inducing other persons to become participants in the program or (b) a participant is to receive compensation when a person introduced by the participant introduces one or more additional persons into participation in the plan, each of whom receives the same or similar right, privilege, license, chance, or opportunity.
(2)A pyramid or chain promotion is declared to be illegal and against the public policy of the state. Any contract made in violation of this section is voidable at the sole option of the purchaser.
(3)The department shall not accept for filing a franchise which involves a pyramid or chain distribution contrary to the laws of this state.
History: 1974, Act 269, Eff. Oct. 15, 1974.