Nangle bill to protect consumers by simplifying subscription cancellations

AUGUSTA – On April 24, State Senator Tim Nangle, D-Windham, introduced LD 1642, “An Act to Protect Maine Consumers by Simplifying Subscription Cancellations,” to the Committee on Housing and Economic Development during a public hearing for the bill.

The bill aims to save Maine people money by simplifying the cancellation process for online subscription services.

“With all the new subscription services available online now, it’s easy to fall into the trap of automatic renewal,” Nangle said. “Whether it’s a streaming service like Netflix or monthly grocery deliveries, it can be hard to keep track of it all – and even harder to cancel when needed. Mainers deserve to be able to opt out of subscriptions easily, quickly and without having to sit on a customer service line for hours on end. My bill aims to make this a reality.”

Nangle’s LD 1642 bill would amend the law regulating automatic subscription renewals to clarify the disclosure requirements for sellers offering such subscriptions and require a seller to obtain a consumer’s express consent for automatic subscription renewal prior to enrollment through a check box, electronic signature or other affirmative action. The seller would also be required to provide the option for cancellation using the same method by which the consumer initially agreed to the subscription. The bill would further prohibit a seller from misrepresenting an automatic subscription offer in the marketing of such subscriptions.

The legislation also directs the Maine Attorney General to adopt rules for the enforcement of the law if passed and to bring forward necessary actions for violations of the law. If a seller is found liable, the bill stipulates that, in addition to damages authorized pursuant to the Maine Unfair Trade Practices Act, the seller is required to provide the consumer with a refund or credit for three times the unauthorized amounts billed or paid.

Nangle said that LD 1642 is supported by Maine Attorney General Aaron Frey.

As written, LD 1642 does not currently apply to memberships requiring in-person cancellation, such as gym memberships. However, Senator Nangle said that he intends to draft an amendment that would make the bill apply to such memberships.

If LD 1642 is enacted, it would only apply to subscriptions that are entered into or renewed on or after Jan. 1, 2026, giving businesses time to adapt to the new law.

The LD 1642 legislation now faces further action in committee.

Senator Nangle represents Maine State Senate District 26, which includes Casco, Frye Island, Raymond, Windham and part of Westbrook in Cumberland County. <