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PC 1052

Para añadir unos nuevos Artículos 2A y 2B a la Ley Núm. 132-2015, según enmendada, conocida como "Ley para la Preservación de la Buena Fe y Seguridad del Consumidor en la Contratación y Terminación de los Contratos sobre Bienes y Servicios", a los fines de definir y prohibir expresamente el uso de "patrones oscuros" (dark patterns); establecer requisitos de transparencia en la notificación de renovaciones automáticas; y para otros fines relacionados.

2025-2028 Session

Puerto Rico bill prohibits deceptive "dark patterns" in digital design and mandates transparent automatic renewal notifications to protect consumers from manipulation.

Referido a Comisión(es)
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Bill Summary · PC 1052

Legislative bill overview

Bill PC 1052 amends Puerto Rico's consumer protection law (Law 132-2015) to explicitly define and prohibit "dark patterns"—deceptive design practices that manipulate users into unintended actions—and to establish transparency requirements for automatic renewal notifications. The bill aims to strengthen consumer safeguards by requiring clearer disclosure and easier opt-out mechanisms for recurring billing practices.

Why is this important

Dark patterns are widespread in digital commerce and subscription services, exploiting cognitive biases to drive unwanted charges and renewals. Consumers in Puerto Rico currently lack specific statutory protections against these tactics, making them vulnerable to hidden fees and difficulty canceling services. This legislation would align Puerto Rico with consumer protection standards increasingly adopted globally.

Potential points of contention

  • Business compliance costs: Companies operating in Puerto Rico may argue that implementing design changes and new notification systems increases operational expenses, particularly for digital platforms and subscription-based businesses
  • Definition clarity: The bill's success depends on how precisely "dark patterns" is legally defined; overly broad language could inadvertently restrict legitimate UX practices or create litigation uncertainty
  • Enforcement mechanisms: The bill's effectiveness hinges on adequate regulatory oversight and penalties; unclear enforcement structures may limit practical impact on violators

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

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