New York City to become first in US to ban deceptive subscription practices
New York City has introduced new regulations to ban deceptive subscription practices and hidden 'junk fees' for consumers. The rule mandates clear cancellation processes and upfront pricing for goods and services, with significant fines for non-compliance.
Why it matters
This sets a major legal precedent in the US for consumer protection against predatory subscription models and opaque pricing structures.
Mayor Zohran Mamdani stands as commissioner Sam Levine speaks at a press conference at the Whitney Museum of American Art, in New York on 21 January 2026. Photograph: Anthony Behar/Sipa US via Alamy Mayor Zohran Mamdani stands as commissioner Sam Levine speaks at a press conference at the Whitney Museum of American Art, in New York on 21 January 2026. Photograph: Anthony Behar/Sipa US via Alamy Consumed New York New York City to become first in US to ban deceptive subscription practices Rule from Mamdani administration bans companies from trapping customers into paying recurring charges and also targets ‘junk fees’
Prefer the Guardian on Google New York City has adopted a new rule that bans companies from using deceptive subscriptions to trap customers into paying for gym memberships, streaming services and other recurring charges, the city’s consumer protection office said.
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