APRO forges partnership with Habitat for Humanity International as a corporate sponsor.

ABC’s 20/20 and CBS’s Public Eye contact APRO simultaneously for exposé features on the industry.

The “Image” and “Couple” commercial spots are released to APRO members. They are the third professionally produced commercial addressing the number one image source – television commercials.

The Consumer Rental-Purchase Agreement Act by Rep. Walter Jones is introduced in the House after J.C. Watts moves off Banking Committee. The bill ends up with 27 co-sponsors.

PIRG releases a new report, Don’t Rent to Own. Media covers both sides of the issue.

1997 Taxpayers Relief Act passes; includes provision defining RTO as a lease for tax purposes. The law also declares 3-Year MACRs depreciation method for rent-to-own products.

The first public perception of the industry by consumers survey is conducted, Into the Consumer’s Mind, Into the Future. The study by Trenholm Research Group is the first market study

Pennsylvania reverses sale statute and defines RTO as a lease.

APRO releases its first commercial, “Gus,” for member use.

Sale vs. lease issue resolved with the IRS, saving the industry more than $1 billion in taxes. The provision eliminates the $1 billion liability threat to RTO. The ruling reflects