By Andi Anderson
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) commemorates Weights and Measures Week, observed nationally from March 1 to 7. This celebration marks the anniversary of President John Adams signing the inaugural U.S. weights and measures legislation into law on March 2, 1799.
MDARD's Laboratory and Consumer Protection Bureau, through its Weights and Measures program, plays a crucial role in ensuring a level playing field in Michigan's economy. Dedicated to upholding fairness, the program diligently verifies the accuracy of weights and measures devices employed by retailers across the state.
MDARD Director Tim Boring emphasizes, "Every Michigander deserves to know they're getting fair value for their goods and products." The agency's commitment to accuracy resonates in the daily efforts of its staff, present throughout the state to maintain integrity in the marketplace.
Inspectors under MDARD's Weights and Measures program are responsible for scrutinizing everything sold by weight, count, or measure. From gas pumps and grocery scales to the contents of packaged goods, inspectors ensure compliance with standards to guarantee consumers receive the accurate value of their purchases.
As technology and marketing practices evolve, MDARD's inspectors face an ongoing challenge to keep pace with innovations. With spring approaching, the program extends its scrutiny to items of particular interest, including bags of mulch and soil, ensuring consumers receive precisely what they pay for.
Craig VanBuren, MDARD’s Laboratory and Consumer Protection Bureau Director, highlights the constant efforts of inspectors in ensuring Michiganders receive fair value in every transaction. Consumers with concerns related to weight, measure, or count in any commercial transaction can register complaints by calling 800-632-3835. MDARD remains committed to fostering consumer confidence and fairness in commerce across Michigan.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-shotbydave
Categories: Michigan, Business