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SD 1714

An Act relative to unilateral contract changes

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Brendan Crighton and 1 co-sponsor

Massachusetts bill restricting companies from unilaterally modifying consumer contracts without explicit advance notice and affirmative consumer consent.

House concurred
0
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Bill Summary · SD 1714

Legislative bill overview

SD 1714 addresses the ability of businesses to unilaterally modify contracts with consumers without consent. The bill restricts companies from making material changes to existing contracts—such as terms, pricing, or service conditions—without explicit advance notice and the consumer's affirmative agreement. It establishes protections ensuring consumers have meaningful recourse when contract terms are altered.

Why is this important

Unilateral contract modifications affect millions of consumers in subscriptions, insurance, utilities, and other service agreements. Currently, many companies change terms through vague fine-print notices, leaving consumers forced to either accept unfavorable changes or terminate services. This bill addresses a real economic harm where consumers lose bargaining power once locked into agreements.

Potential points of contention

  • Business flexibility vs. consumer protection: Companies argue that prohibiting modifications limits their ability to respond to rising costs, market conditions, or operational changes; consumer advocates counter that businesses can still raise prices with proper notice and consent mechanisms
  • Definition of "material changes": Determining what constitutes a material change could create litigation and regulatory ambiguity—does a 2% fee increase qualify? A service reduction? Different stakeholders will likely dispute thresholds
  • Market competitiveness concerns: Critics may argue strict unilateral change restrictions could increase administrative costs, potentially driving up service prices or limiting market entry for smaller providers

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

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