New York Governor Hochul Unveils Consumer-Friendly Legislation

New York Governor Kathy Hochul recently signed a series of bills designed to improve consumer experiences and provide greater protections. These changes impact various sectors, from health clubs to restaurants and telemarketers.

Key Changes for Consumers:

1. Easier Gym Membership Cancellations: New legislation simplifies the process of canceling gym memberships, requiring health clubs to accept cancellations within 10 business days and allowing for online cancellations.

2. Ban on Leased Car Fees: Administrative fees when returning leased vehicles are now prohibited, aiming to reduce financial burdens on families.

3. 'Seinfeld Bill' Targets Telemarketers: This new law requires telemarketers to disclose their company name, address, and phone number within 30 seconds of a call, combating incessant calls and scams.

4. Online Restaurant Sanitary Grades: Restaurants offering delivery services must now publicly display their sanitary inspection grades, increasing transparency for consumers.

5. Clear Over-the-Counter Drug Labels: Obscured labels on over-the-counter drugs and cosmetics are now banned, ensuring better consumer awareness.

Enhanced Domestic Violence Protections:

Hochul also signed Melanie's Law, expanding legal protections in domestic violence cases by allowing courts to issue orders of protection to immediate family members regardless of age. This closes a legal loophole that previously excluded adult children.

Streamlining Government Services:

The governor also launched the New York Experience (NYX) initiative, aiming to improve the efficiency and responsiveness of state government services, focusing on agencies like the DMV, Department of Health, and Department of Labor.

Learn more about the NYX initiative