New Jersey Senate Bill S3198

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 10/13/22
• Refer: 10/13/22

Caption

Permits consumers aged 65 and over up to five business days to cancel home improvement contracts.

Impact

The bill impacts New Jersey's home improvement contracting laws by specifically adjusting the rights of senior consumers during the contract cancellation process. By allowing an extended review period, this legislation aims to enhance consumer protection for an aging population that may require additional time to thoroughly understand the terms of contracts. This change will specifically affect the way contractors must communicate cancellation rights to their clients and alter the standard procedures currently in place for such agreements.

Summary

Senate Bill S3198 introduces a significant amendment to existing legislation that governs home improvement contracts in New Jersey. The primary focus of this bill is to extend the cancellation period for consumers aged 65 and over from three business days to five business days after receiving a signed contract. This change acknowledges the need for older consumers to have more time to review contract terms, potentially safeguarding them from hasty decisions that could lead to unfavorable transactions.

Contention

While the bill seeks to provide greater consumer protections for seniors, it may also lead to concerns from some contractors about potential impacts on business operations. There could be apprehensions regarding longer cancellation periods leading to increased administrative burdens or financial uncertainty regarding project timelines. However, the overarching goal of the bill is to ensure that vulnerable populations, like senior citizens, are adequately protected against high-pressure sales tactics in the home improvement industry.