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SB 82

Contracts: consumer goods and services: dispute resolution provisions.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Tom Umberg

SB 82 establishes new standards for dispute resolution clauses in California consumer contracts, affecting arbitration and class action waiver enforceability.

Chaptered by Secretary of State. Chapter 350, Statutes of 2025.
#contracts #consumergoodsandservices #disputeresolutionprovisions
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Bill Summary · SB 82

Legislative bill overview

SB 82 modifies California's requirements for dispute resolution provisions in consumer contracts for goods and services. The bill establishes new standards for how companies must structure arbitration clauses, class action waivers, and other dispute resolution mechanisms in their consumer agreements.

Why is this important

This law directly affects millions of California consumers by determining whether they can sue companies individually or collectively, and whether disputes go to arbitration or court. The rules set by this bill influence consumers' practical ability to seek remedies for defective products, service failures, and other contractual disputes.

Potential points of contention

  • Arbitration accessibility: Businesses argue mandatory arbitration reduces litigation costs and delays; consumer advocates contend it limits access to justice and reduces corporate accountability
  • Class action restrictions: Companies want to prevent expensive class actions; consumers and plaintiffs' attorneys argue class actions are necessary for small-value disputes that wouldn't be pursued individually
  • Enforceability standards: Disagreement over whether the bill's provisions are too restrictive on legitimate business contract terms or insufficiently protective of consumer rights

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

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