LETTER TO EDITOR: A big tent for rent

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The author of the attack on the legislative efforts of the rent-to-own industry appears shocked that lobbying and political activism are part of the Washington scene ("Rental industry seeking influence on Hill," Page 1, Oct. 26). Among the supposed sins he cites in his story is our trade group's participation in former Rep. William Lacy Clay's annual golf tournament to raise money for students' scholarships in my home state.

The federal legislation we seek today, and have sought consistently for years, would acknowledge what 46 states already have recognized in their own statutes: The rent-to-own transaction is a lease, not a loan. Unlike with a credit-card purchase or installment sale, the consumer can cancel the lease at any time with no explanation, no further obligation and no stain on his or her credit rating.

The rent-to-own transaction is already highly regulated in many states, with extensive pricing restrictions and disclosure requirements. The proposed federal legislation would increase consumer protection in 33 states. But nothing in the federal legislation would keep states from further tightening or increasing their own regulations.

More than 3 million Americans a year opt for the convenience and flexibility of renting to own. It's a choice that works for them, whether the merchandise is a refrigerator, a television set or a cello.

As much as I personally resent the implication by activists quoted in the article that there is something illegal or unethical about our legislative campaign, I am even more troubled by the elitist condescension with which they regard the consumers whom they purport to protect. What makes these activists so certain they have greater mastery of the finances and needs of consumers than the consumers have themselves?

JOHN CLEEK

President

Association of Progressive Rental Organizations

Columbia, Mo.