Bill > S3877

This bill establishes comprehensive consumer protections for subscription services by defining key terms and mandating specific requirements for businesses offering recurring payment plans. The legislation requires subscription service providers to offer cancellation options through the same medium used to initially sign up, such as online, by phone, or email, and mandates that online cancellation must include a prominent, easily accessible direct link or button to terminate the service. The bill prohibits providers from misrepresenting material facts during marketing, requires clear disclosure of terms before charging consumers, mandates obtaining express informed consent, and ensures a simple cancellation mechanism. Providers utilizing "negative option features" (where non-action is interpreted as continued agreement) must adhere to these standards, and violations will be considered unlawful practices under existing consumer protection laws. The Attorney General or Division of Consumer Affairs can seek injunctions and restitution for consumers, though the bill explicitly states there is no private right of action. The law does not apply to services already regulated by specific state or federal agencies, such as utilities or telecommunications, and will take effect four months after enactment.

Business and Industry

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/S3877