Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB417

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 9/19/23
• Refer: 9/19/23
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Automatic renewals of consumer contracts and providing a penalty. (FE)

Impact

The bill's implementation affects state laws concerning consumer rights significantly, particularly around subscription services and automatic renewals. It introduces new requirements for businesses that offer renewal contracts which include offering consumers easily accessible methods for cancellation and providing clear notifications before any automatic renewals take effect. This legislative change is designed to protect consumers from unintentional renewals and hidden fees, improving overall transparency in consumer transactions.

Summary

Assembly Bill 417 aims to enhance consumer protection by regulating automatic renewals of consumer contracts. The bill requires clear and conspicuous disclosures regarding renewal terms, including the price after a trial period and cancellation policies. It emphasizes the importance of obtaining affirmative consent from consumers before charging them for renewal offers, aiming to prevent deceptive practices in subscription services. By mandating that any subscription must be clearly explained, it seeks to empower consumers to make informed decisions.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support among consumer advocates for strengthening consumer rights, some industry representatives view it as burdensome. Critics argue that the additional requirements could hinder business operations, particularly for small enterprises that may lack the resources to comply. The balance between robust consumer protection and business flexibility remains a point of contention in discussions around this bill.