New York AG Proposes FAIR Act to Strengthen Consumer Protections

The legislation aims to combat deceptive business practices and fill the gap left by federal consumer protection rollbacks.

New York Attorney General Letitia James introduced the FAIR Business Practices Act to expand and modernize state consumer protection laws first passed in 1970.
The bill targets deceptive practices such as hard-to-cancel subscriptions, predatory lending, and the exploitation of non-English speakers and vulnerable populations.
Violators could face civil penalties up to $1,000, with potential for triple damages if violations are found to be willful or knowing.
The proposal responds to the Trump administration's efforts to dismantle the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, which has left states to address consumer protection gaps.
Critics argue the bill's broad language could increase litigation and costs for businesses, but supporters emphasize its necessity to protect consumers from unfair practices.