Bill > SB5207

This bill establishes new regulations for electronic media services regarding term-based subscriptions, defining key terms such as "electronic media" (intangible music, news, or entertainment) and "subscription" (a contract for at least one year). The bill requires electronic media services to provide a pro-rata refund to consumers who cancel their subscription, with the refund calculated based on the time the subscription was active until the end of the cancellation month. Electronic media services must disclose their refund schedule, including any cancellation fees, before initiating a subscription and disburse refunds within six months of cancellation. The bill does not prevent automatic renewal of subscriptions or prohibit consumers from waiving refunds. Importantly, while violations are considered unfair or deceptive practices under the consumer protection act, the bill specifies that only the attorney general can bring enforcement actions, and it does not create a private right of action for consumers. The legislation applies to individual consumers and does not cover commercial businesses, government, or non-governmental organizations, aiming to protect consumers by ensuring transparency and fair treatment in electronic media service subscriptions.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5207&Year=2025&Initiative=false