Stop the Fraud — Verrelli to Introduce A-5346 to Combat Gift-Card Scams Targeting Seniors; Affirms Support for Retail Employees

TRENTON, NJ — Assemblyman Anthony S. Verrelli (NJ-15) announced today the introduction of A-5346, legislation that would mandate additional training for retail employees across New Jersey in identifying customers who have fallen victim to instances of over-the-phone gift-card fraud. These phone calls coerce New Jersey residents – especially senior citizens – into making large purchases in the form of refillable gift cards in an effort to appease individuals who fraudulently claim to represent agencies like the Internal Revenue Service and demand payment. This legislation would put a stop to these reprehensible instances of victimization of vulnerable New Jerseyans.

“We must do everything in our power to protect our senior citizens and support retail employees, who are invaluable members of our workforce,” said Assemblyman Verrelli. “This bill will make sure that these brave employees are equipped with the tools necessary to stop these senseless acts of fraud that target our seniors.”

Assemblyman Verrelli will formally announce this new legislative effort and commend Alex Carpenter, a CVS employee who identified a victim of a gift-card scam, on Wednesday, 22 May 2019. Additional details below:

WHO: Assemblyman Anthony S. Verrelli (NJ-15)
Alex Carpenter, Store Manager, CVS Pharmacy #824

WHAT: Introduction of A-5346; Commendation of Alex Carpenter

WHEN: Wednesday, 22 May 2019 at 1:00 PM

WHERE: CVS Pharmacy #824
2721 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence Township, NJ 08648

PRESS: Open