In addition to the criminal penalties provided in RCW 61.34.030, the legislature finds and declares that equity skimming substantially affects the public interest. The commission by any person of an act of equity skimming or a pattern of equity skimming is an unfair or deceptive act or practice and unfair method of competition in the conduct of trade or commerce in violation of RCW 19.86.020.

[1988 c 33 § 3.]