What is the potential consequence for a dealer or salesperson engaging in bait and switch tactics?

Engaging in bait and switch tactics can lead to significant legal repercussions, with the designated consequence being a Class 2 misdemeanor. This classification indicates that the actions are considered a serious violation of consumer protection laws, which aim to ensure fair and honest selling practices in the motor vehicle industry. A Class 2 misdemeanor often carries penalties that can include both fines and potential jail time, reflecting the seriousness of deceiving consumers through misleading sales tactics. Such strategies undermine trust in the marketplace and can have far-reaching implications for both the dealer's reputation and the overall integrity of the industry.

While the other options might seem reasonable in terms of repercussions, they don't align with the legal framework most jurisdictions use to categorize the severity of deceptive selling practices like bait and switch. For instance, a total ban from all industry activities is generally reserved for egregious violations and not typically for a single instance of this type of practice. Similarly, mandatory training sessions may be implemented as a preventive or remedial measure but would be less likely to be a direct consequence on its own when serious legal action is warranted. Thus, the designation as a Class 2 misdemeanor aptly reflects the gravity of the act.