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H 1677

An Act to improve contract provisions waiving certain rights

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Michelle DuBois

Summary of Bill H 1677: An Act to Improve Contract Provisions Waiving Certain Rights Bill OverviewH 1677, titled "An Act to improve contract provisions waiving certain rights", was

Accompanied a study order, see H5281 (under House Rule 27)
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Bill Summary · H 1677

Summary of Bill H 1677: An Act to Improve Contract Provisions Waiving Certain Rights

Bill Overview

H 1677, titled "An Act to improve contract provisions waiving certain rights", was introduced in the state legislature on February 27, 2025. The bill seeks to address issues around contractual provisions that require individuals to waive or limit certain legal rights.

Key Provisions

The main components of H 1677 include:

  1. Restrictions on Waivers: The bill would prohibit contracts from requiring individuals to waive or limit their rights related to:

    • Discrimination based on protected characteristics
    • Accessing the state's judicial system to resolve disputes
    • Reporting unlawful conduct to authorities

  2. Disclosure Requirements: Contracts containing any permissible waivers would be required to prominently disclose:

    • The specific rights being waived
    • An explanation of the implications of the waiver
    • Notice that the waiver is not required as a condition of the contract

  3. Enforcement Mechanisms: The bill would empower the state's attorney general to investigate potential violations and bring civil enforcement actions. Individuals harmed by unlawful waivers could also pursue private legal action.

Affected Parties and Impact

H 1677 is intended to protect the legal rights of individuals, especially in the context of employment, consumer, and other common contracts. By restricting overly broad waivers, the legislation aims to prevent the erosion of important civil rights and access to the courts.

The bill would impact businesses and organizations across the state that utilize standard contract terms, as they would need to review and revise their practices to comply with the new requirements. There may also be a transitional period as courts interpret the scope and application of the law.

Next Steps

The bill is currently scheduled for a hearing on November 4, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM, with the hearing format updated to be held both in-person (location A-1) and virtually. The legislature will need to carefully consider the bill's provisions and potential impacts before deciding whether to advance it further in the legislative process.

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

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