authorexpoA new Californian law going into effect in January mandates that anyone selling a signed book for more than $5 must vouch for the autograph's authenticity. That includes, among other things, identifying the previous owner.
The law was designed to protect consumers from the booming trade in fake collectibles. But it is written so loosely that some worry it might drag booksellers down.
“I can understand why booksellers are concerned,” said Michael Risher, a lawyer attorney with the A.C.L.U. of Northern California. “The law is an invasion into privacy and should be amended.”
“Real criminals can circumvent the law with little effort, and yet the measure creates a huge disincentive for honest businesses,” said Jason DeBord, who runs a blog about the market for movie and television props.
The booksellers hope the next Legislature will clarify the law. That will not be easy though. State Representative Chang, a Republican, narrowly lost her bid to join the State Senate, and will be out of office.
Source: News feed
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