Hastings advances measures to simplify subscription cancellations, & fights for stronger oversight of Buy-Now-Pay-Later loans to protect Illinois consumers

SPRINGFIELD — Subscription services often make canceling an active subscription difficult and convoluted in order to make customers give up or forget to cancel the service. To combat this practice, State Senator Michael E. Hastings advanced legislation designed to protect Illinois consumers from hidden fees and confusing subscription contracts.

“Everyone knows this feeling ─ you decide it’s finally time to cancel that subscription you haven’t used in months, expecting it to be a simple press of a button,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “Suddenly, you need a password from 2007, your childhood pet’s middle name and the patience of a saint just to ensure you don’t keep getting charged for something you don’t want.”

Senate Bill 3562 would give consumers clear, retainable disclosures before subscriptions are activated. It would also guarantee that cancellations can be completed easily—online or in the same way the consumer signed up—and would ensure companies provide timely notice for any price increases or changes to contract terms.

“Whether it’s ten or twenty dollars a month, it adds up,” said Hastings. “This bill makes it easier for consumers to manage their subscriptions and cancel stress-free whenever they choose.”

Illinois Senator Michael Hastings. Courtesy of Senator Hastings

Senate Bill 3562 passed the Senate Judiciary Committee on Wednesday with bipartisan support.

stronger oversight of Buy-Now-Pay-Later loans to protect Illinois consumers

State Senator Michael E. Hastings is speaking out on the need for stronger oversight of Buy-Now-Pay-Later programs, a fast-growing form of short-term credit that allows consumers to pay for purchases in installments.

“These programs may seem convenient at first, but they can carry hidden costs, unexpected fees and financial risks that often go unnoticed until it is too late,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “Young people, low-income families and those on fixed incomes are especially vulnerable. Illinois consumers deserve clear information, protections and accountability from lenders.”

Hastings advanced legislation that would require BNPL lenders to register with the state and provide full disclosures about repayment terms, interest rates and potential fees while maintaining fair and transparent dispute or refund processes. The legislation also would ensure consumers understand the total cost of borrowing and can make informed financial decisions.

The measure is intended to protect consumers while allowing responsible BNPL programs to operate fairly. Hastings emphasized that accountability and transparency are key to preventing abusive practices and promoting financial literacy across the state.

“The rapid expansion of Buy-Now-Pay-Later loans has outpaced oversight,” said Hastings. “Without clear rules, consumers can quickly find themselves trapped in debt or facing unexpected penalties. This legislation is about leveling the playing field and making sure families know exactly what they are signing up for.”

Senate Bill 3561 passed the Senate Judiciary Committee Wednesday.

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Ray Hanania is an award-winning opinion columnist, author & former Chicago City Hall reporter (1977-1992). A veteran who served during the Vietnam War and the recipient of four SPJ Peter Lisagor Awards for column writing, Hanania writes weekly opinion columns on mainstream American & Chicagoland topics for the Southwest News-Herald, Des Plaines Valley News, the Regional News, The Reporter Newspapers, and Suburban Chicagoland.

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