Bill > A00428

This bill amends the New York General Business Law to enhance consumer protections for online dating services and social referral services. The bill introduces comprehensive regulations governing these services, including limitations on contract terms, pricing, and service provisions. Key provisions include capping total contract costs at $1,000, prohibiting mandatory ancillary services, and requiring service providers to offer a specified number of social referrals or matches. The bill mandates that consumers have the right to cancel contracts within three business days without penalty and place their membership on hold for up to one year. It also establishes strict privacy protections, requiring service providers to obtain consent before sharing personal information and to return or destroy personal data at contract expiration. Additionally, the bill requires online dating services to disclose information about banned members who may have engaged in fraudulent activities, with the goal of protecting users from potential scams. The legislation provides enforcement mechanisms for consumers, including the ability to seek legal action and potential civil penalties for service providers who violate these provisions, and empowers the Attorney General and local consumer affairs offices to take action against non-compliant services.

Business and Industry, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A428