The Free Means Free Act aims to combat misleading advertising practices by providers of contracted services in New Jersey. The bill prohibits providers from advertising any product as free or at no cost if there are associated fees that would ultimately make the product not free. Specifically, it outlines that providers cannot assess return or restocking fees, cancellation fees that incorporate the product's value, or include the product's cost in regular bills for contracted services. Additionally, the bill mandates that providers must clearly disclose the ultimate cost of any product, which includes all potential fees, at the point of sale or contract agreement.

To ensure transparency, the bill requires providers to indicate whether a product is offered for free or at a reduced rate, disclose the retail value and any subsidies, and specify any cancellation or return fees. The act defines "ultimate cost" as the total cost of a product, including all associated fees. Violations of this act would be considered unlawful practices under the consumer fraud act, subjecting providers to monetary penalties, cease and desist orders, and potential punitive damages.