News Summary
New York Attorney General Tish James is facing significant backlash from business groups regarding her proposed FAIR Business Practices Act, aimed at enhancing consumer protections against deceptive practices. Critics argue it may empower frivolous lawsuits, particularly targeting small businesses, and create an unbalanced legal landscape. Some advocacy groups support the Act, emphasizing the need for stronger consumer protections. The ongoing debate highlights the tension between consumer rights and the operational challenges faced by small businesses in New York.
New York Attorney General Tish James is facing significant backlash from various business groups regarding her proposed FAIR Business Practices Act, which is designed to enhance consumer protections against deceptive business practices.
The FAIR Business Practices Act aims to target issues such as deed theft, junk fees, and hard-to-cancel subscriptions. However, critics argue that the legislation could lead to an increase in frivolous lawsuits, particularly aimed at small businesses. Many warn that this could have negative repercussions for New York’s business community.
Organizations like the Lawsuit Reform Alliance of NY have raised concerns that the act would undermine existing legal safeguards and due process protections. They argue that it would invite potential exploitation by profit-driven lawyers seeking settlements. The proposal includes provisions that would enable law firms to demand pre-suit settlements, which critics believe could create an environment ripe for legal threats against small businesses that may not have the resources to defend themselves in court.
Additionally, the legislation targets activities such as online phishing scams, data breaches, and the predatory practices employed by student loan services and car dealers. Critics of the FAIR Act reference a study indicating that “excess tort costs” are already imposing a burden of $61.8 billion in unnecessary legal expenses on New Yorkers, and they fear that this new act would worsen the existing problem.
Business representatives have called on lawmakers to shift their focus towards supporting small businesses rather than empowering lawyers through potential litigation. Specific concerns have been highlighted regarding the vagueness in definitions contained within the bill, which critics believe could be manipulated by attorneys for profit rather than serving the interest of justice.
The business community is united in requesting that legislators reject the FAIR Business Practices Act, as they believe it undermines efforts to improve affordability and sustainable practices in the state. Proponents of the act, however, argue that it is necessary in light of policy changes made under the Trump administration that they believe have weakened consumer protections. The Attorney General’s office claims that this legislation would close loopholes allowing for consumer scams and better enable officials to protect New Yorkers from corporate malfeasance.
In support of the FAIR Business Practices Act, groups such as the Student Borrower Protection Center and Small Business Majority have emphasized the critical need for stronger protections, particularly as federal consumer oversight faces potential cuts. Advocacy from these groups highlights that the act could provide essential safeguards against predatory lending practices and promote fair treatment for small businesses.
As Attorney General Tish James navigates increasing scrutiny—including a criminal probe related to mortgage fraud allegations—she continues to assert that the FAIR Business Practices Act is integral to her mission of protecting consumers in New York. James has previously won civil fraud charges against Donald Trump and his organization, resulting in significant legal judgments, which adds complexity to her current position.
As debate around the FAIR Business Practices Act intensifies, the future of the proposed legislation remains uncertain amidst a growing chorus of criticism from both the business community and political circles. The ongoing discussions reflect a critical juncture for consumer protection and the operational landscape for small businesses in New York.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Times of India
- Wikipedia: Consumer Protection
- New York Post
- Google Search: FAIR Business Practices Act
- VinNews
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Legal System
- Democrat and Chronicle
- Google News: Consumer Protection New York
Author: STAFF HERE NEW YORK WRITER
NEW YORK STAFF WRITER The NEW YORK STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewYork.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New York, the five boroughs, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as New York Fashion Week, Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, and Tribeca Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater New York Chamber of Commerce and United Way of New York, plus leading businesses in finance and media that power the local economy such as JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, and Bloomberg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBuffalo.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into New York's dynamic landscape.
