MADISON, Wis. -- With the holiday season fast approaching, no doubt you'll pick up more than one gift card for family or friends. News 3’s Colin Benedict reported that state lawmakers are considering consumer protections to make sure a $50 gift card actually gets you $50 of stuff.

More people are buying cards, but some have expiration dates or lose their value over time. You can find it in the fine print on the back, but a lot of people just don't see it.

State lawmakers are considering a bill, which would make it illegal for gift cards or gift certificates to expire or de-value over time. Eleven other states have already passed similar legislation.

Gift cards have become a $55 billion a year industry. News 3 reported that right now, more people are buying gift cards than apparel. Rep. Peggy Krusick (D) Milwaukee, the bill's author, says many people are surprised when they try to redeem the cards.

“The shopper has already paid the money. This is a consumer protection issue,” said Krusick. “The consumer has bought the gift certificate. I think it's up Wisconsin businesses to honor the full value of the gift certificate."

The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection would also have the ability to fine a company up to $10,000 for violating the law. Also, consumers could get $200 or more back if the law is in place and they have a gift card that expires or de-values.