HARRISBURG, PA — Attorney General Michelle Henry announced a settlement this week with PetSmart LLC, resolving allegations that the company misled employees regarding the costs of its pet groomer/stylist training programs.
The settlement, formalized through an Assurance of Voluntary Compliance, addresses claims that PetSmart advertised its training programs as free. In reality, employees who participated were required to sign agreements mandating repayment of up to $5,500 if they left the company within two years. Such agreements are known as training repayment agreement provisions (TRAPs).
“Employees taking advantage of seemingly free training are seeking to better their skills and knowledge for their jobs,” said Attorney General Henry. “PetSmart took advantage of those aspirations and set Pennsylvania employees up to pay thousands of dollars while misrepresenting the terms. Practices like these are unfair, and my office will continue to work to stop their use and protect hardworking Pennsylvanians.”
As part of the settlement, PetSmart has agreed to cease using TRAPs in Pennsylvania. Additionally, the company will ensure that any future offers of free services or goods will clearly disclose all terms and conditions upfront. PetSmart has already stopped using these agreements in the state and has taken steps to mitigate any negative impacts on affected employees.
The company will also pay $20,000 to the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General. These funds will support future public protection and educational initiatives.
Pennsylvanians who believe they have been impacted by TRAP agreements with any employer are encouraged to file a complaint with the Fair Labor Section of the Attorney General’s office. They can call 215-560-2402 or email fairlabor@attorneygeneral.gov for assistance.
This Assurance of Voluntary Compliance was filed in the Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas by Deputy Attorneys General Kevin R. Green and Ryan W. Sypniewski. This settlement marks a significant step in ensuring fair labor practices and protecting the rights of employees in Pennsylvania.
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