New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S08137

Introduced
5/15/25  
Refer
5/15/25  

Caption

Enacts the "civil justice protection act (CJPA)"; requires that no person shall waive a series of rights and procedures when purchasing goods and services.

Impact

The enactment of S08137 has the potential to fundamentally reshape the landscape of contract law, especially in terms of protecting consumer rights. It essentially nullifies any contractual terms that contradict its provisions, making them void and unenforceable. This act serves to bolster the legal standing of consumers against businesses that might otherwise attempt to limit liability and restrict judicial recourse through contracts. By empowering individuals to retain their rights, it promotes fairness in consumer dealings and could lead to a more equitable market environment.

Summary

Senate Bill S08137, known as the 'Civil Justice Protection Act (CJPA)', introduces significant amendments to the General Business Law in New York, particularly focusing on consumer protection in purchasing personal goods and services. The act aims to prohibit certain provisions in contracts that may limit the rights of consumers when engaging in disputes. Specifically, it forbids clauses that require individuals to waive their rights to trial by jury, restrict their participation in class actions, or limit the statute of limitations for filing claims. This law is notably designed to enhance the ability of individuals to seek justice in civil matters related to consumer transactions.

Contention

Debate surrounding the bill has revealed significant divisions among stakeholders. Proponents argue that the CJPA is crucial for protecting vulnerable consumers against predatory business practices that hinder their legal recourse. Meanwhile, business advocates have expressed concerns that the bill could lead to increased litigation and regulatory burdens, potentially escalating operational costs and complicating contractual agreements. The implications of such legal protections may inadvertently drive businesses to alter their practices and agreements, leading to a reevaluation of how services and products are offered in the consumer market.

Companion Bills

NY A08857

Same As Enacts the "civil justice protection act (CJPA)"; requires that no person shall waive a series of rights and procedures when purchasing goods and services.

Previously Filed As

NY A08857

Enacts the "civil justice protection act (CJPA)"; requires that no person shall waive a series of rights and procedures when purchasing goods and services.

NY A11270

Enacts the "advancing rights for talent, independence, services and tenure (ARTIST) act" in relation to personal services contracts between artists and companies.

NY S04424

Enacts the "anti-waiver of employment rights act" to invalidate any express or implied contractual provision waiving or otherwise limiting any employee's substantive or procedural rights, remedies, or claim.

NY A05411

Enacts the "anti-waiver of employment rights act" to invalidate any express or implied contractual provision waiving or otherwise limiting any employee's substantive or procedural rights, remedies, or claim.

NY S01455

Enacts the "safer weapons, safer homes act"; requires the division of criminal justice services to study the technological viability of personalized firearms; defines personalized firearms; requires the division to report to the governor and the legislature on the results of the study.

NY A01191

Enacts the "safer weapons, safer homes act"; requires the division of criminal justice services to study the technological viability of personalized firearms; defines personalized firearms; requires the division to report to the governor and the legislature on the results of the study.

NY A10451

Establishes a bill of rights for the unhoused; provides that no person shall be denied certain rights because of a state of homelessness nor shall such persons be harassed, cited, fined, or arrested by law enforcement, security personnel, public employees, or private citizens for the exercise of certain rights; describes rights; provides for a bill of benefits of the unhoused for the free provision of a postal address and the right to juridical services to ensure protection from the violation of their protected rights; requires the office of temporary and disability assistance to create a pamphlet of such rights; makes related provisions.

NY S07521

Directs the division of criminal justice services to promulgate safety standards and training requirements for the protection of law enforcement staff against biological hazards posed by spitting of persons in custody.

NY S08447

Requires a fiscal note when a bill enacts or amends a law impacting the cost of utility services.

NY A08877

Requires a fiscal note when a bill enacts or amends a law impacting the cost of utility services.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.