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SB 133

AN ACT RELATING TO PROPERTY -- PROHIBITION OF UNFAIR SERVICE AGREEMENTS

2025 Regular Session Introduced by John Burke and 6 co-sponsors

Rhode Island bans unfair service agreements and empowers enforcement against deceptive contract terms harming consumers.

06/13/2025 Signed by Governor
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 133

Legislative bill overview

SB 133 prohibits unfair or deceptive service agreements in Rhode Island, establishing consumer protections against problematic contract terms. The bill defines what constitutes unfair service agreements and provides enforcement mechanisms through the state's consumer protection laws.

Why is this important

Many consumers face service contracts with hidden fees, automatic renewals, or one-sided terms that are difficult to cancel or understand. This legislation aims to protect Rhode Island residents from exploitative practices in service industries by creating legal standards and remedies for those harmed by unfair agreements.

Potential points of contention

  • Business compliance costs: Service providers may face increased administrative burden and legal uncertainty in rewriting agreements to comply with new standards
  • Definition ambiguity: Without seeing the bill's specific language, "unfair" service agreements could be subject to interpretation disputes between businesses and regulators
  • Enforcement discretion: The extent to which the Attorney General aggressively pursues violations could significantly impact actual consumer protections versus symbolic legislation

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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