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Bill

S 699

An Act relative to unilateral contract changes

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

Restricts Massachusetts businesses from unilaterally changing contract terms without explicit consumer consent, requiring affirmative agreement to material modifications.

Hearing scheduled for 10/14/2025 from 10:30 AM-01:00 PM in A-1
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Bill Summary · S 699

Legislative bill overview

S. 699 addresses the ability of businesses to unilaterally modify contract terms with consumers or other parties. The bill restricts companies from making one-sided changes to existing agreements without explicit consent from the other party. This applies to contracts across various sectors including utilities, insurance, telecommunications, and subscription services.

Why is this important

Unilateral contract modifications affect millions of Massachusetts residents annually through price increases, service reductions, or changed terms on everything from phone plans to gym memberships. Without restrictions, businesses can alter agreements after consumers commit, creating financial hardship and limiting consumer choice. This bill aims to rebalance negotiating power between large corporations and individual consumers.

Potential points of contention

  • Business compliance costs: Companies argue that requiring explicit consent for all contract changes increases administrative burden and may limit their ability to adjust pricing for inflation or operational changes, potentially raising consumer prices across the board.
  • Definition ambiguity: The bill's scope regarding what constitutes a "material" change versus a minor administrative update remains unclear, creating potential litigation over borderline cases.
  • Exemptions debate: Questions exist about which industries or contract types should be exempted (e.g., government contracts, emergency modifications, or services with already-negotiated adjustment clauses).

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

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