A consumer is a person who purchases goods or services for personal use.
In Montana, a consumer is generally defined as an individual who buys goods or services primarily for personal, family, or household purposes. This definition aligns with the broader understanding of consumer protection laws at both the state and federal levels. Montana's consumer protection laws are designed to safeguard consumers from unfair or deceptive trade practices and to ensure fair competition. These laws are outlined in the Montana Consumer Protection Act (MCPA), found in Title 30, Chapter 14 of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA). The MCPA prohibits various deceptive and unfair business practices and provides remedies for consumers who have been harmed by such practices. Additionally, federal laws such as the Federal Trade Commission Act (FTC Act) also protect consumers by prohibiting unfair or deceptive business practices on a national scale.