This bill establishes a new chapter in Title 19 RCW that mandates electronic media services to provide refunds to consumers who cancel term-based subscriptions. It defines key terms such as "automatic renewal," "cancellation," "consumer," "electronic media," "subscription," and "refund." The bill stipulates that cancellations take effect at the end of the month in which they occur and requires that refunds be calculated on a pro rata basis, based on the time the subscription was active and the amounts paid by the consumer. Additionally, electronic media services must disclose any applicable refund schedules and must issue refunds within six months of cancellation.
The legislation also emphasizes that violations of these provisions are considered unfair or deceptive acts under the consumer protection act, allowing only the attorney general to enforce the chapter. It clarifies that the chapter does not limit the option for automatic renewals or prohibit consumers from waiving refunds in exchange for other considerations. Overall, the bill aims to enhance consumer protection in the realm of electronic media subscriptions by ensuring transparency and accountability from service providers.