Two U.S. representatives – Mark Takano (D-Calif.) and Mark Amodei (R-Nev.) – have once again proposed legislation designed to protect consumers from deceptive subscription practices. The Unsubscribe Act seeks to force companies to make cancellation policies as straightforward as the initial sign-up process. This is a recurring effort, as previous attempts to regulate subscription renewals have stalled or been overturned.
The Problem: Trapped Subscriptions
For years, companies have relied on intentionally complicated cancellation procedures – often requiring customers to call during specific hours, navigate endless menus, or even send physical letters – to retain revenue from forgotten or neglected subscriptions. These “subscription traps” exploit consumer habits and cost households an estimated $200 per year in unwanted fees.
The issue isn’t new; it’s a systemic flaw in how businesses lock customers into recurring payments. Many free trials automatically convert into full-price subscriptions if not actively canceled, and the terms are often buried in fine print.
Failed Regulations and Legal Setbacks
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) previously attempted to address this with a “click-to-cancel” rule in 2023, mandating easy online cancellations. However, the ruling was struck down by courts on technical grounds in July 2025, just before implementation. This legal setback underscores the difficulty of regulating these practices through administrative action alone.
The FTC has selectively pursued enforcement actions – such as a $7.5 million settlement with Chegg in September 2025 over subscription fees – but comprehensive reform remains elusive.
What the New Bill Would Do
The Unsubscribe Act would require companies to:
- Obtain explicit opt-in confirmation before charging full price after a free or discounted trial.
- Clearly and conspicuously disclose subscription terms during sign-up.
- Make cancellation as easy as enrollment.
This would prevent companies from relying on consumer forgetfulness or intentionally difficult procedures to continue charging for unwanted services.
Bipartisan Support and Future Prospects
Despite previous failures, lawmakers believe this new iteration has a better chance of success due to increased bipartisan interest. Representative Takano has championed similar legislation since 2017, with previous attempts gaining only Democratic support in the House. However, this bill appears to have broader appeal across the political spectrum.
“Corporations haven’t put into place commonsense reforms like ending a subscription just as easily as signing up for one.” – Rep. Takano
The Unsubscribe Act bypasses ongoing regulatory delays, offering a legislative solution to a persistent consumer problem. Whether it will pass remains uncertain, but the bill highlights the continued pressure on companies to adopt fairer subscription practices.
This legislation is necessary because the current system disproportionately burdens consumers while allowing businesses to profit from predatory practices. The FTC’s failed attempts demonstrate that administrative action alone isn’t enough; Congress must intervene to ensure fair and transparent subscription policies.
