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.