Scroll Top

Greenstein Bill to Allow the Cancellation of Certain Service Contracts without Fees when Customers Pass Away Advances

Senator Linda Greenstein congratulates Congressman Donald Norcross on his succession to the U.S. House of Representatives.

TRENTON – A bill sponsored by Senator Linda Greenstein that would allow for the cancellation of certain service contracts without paying early cancellation fees when a customer passes away advanced from the Senate Economic Growth Committee today.

The bill, S-2801, would require service providers of cable television, cellular telephones, direct broadcast satellite, electric generation, heating oil, internet access, propane, telecommunications and voice over internet protocol to allow the executor of a deceased customer to opt-out of a service contract without paying early cancellation fees.

“Many service providers blindly charge an early cancellation fee even when notified of a customer’s death,” said Senator Greenstein (D-Mercer/Middlesex). “When families are grieving the loss of a loved one, they should not become subjected to fees which can feel as though they are being penalized for their loss. This legislation would provide some closure during such a difficult time.”

The executor would be required to request the contract cancellation in writing and to submit the request along with documentation proving the customer has passed away.

A civil penalty of up to $1,000 imposed against a person who violates the provisions of the bill with additional offenses applicable each day when a violation continues to persist.

The bill was released from committee by a vote of 5-0, and next heads to the full Senate for further consideration.