New York City's click-to-cancel rule went into effect on October 1, 2026, making it the first city in the US to require businesses to let consumers cancel subscriptions as easily as they signed up. The rule, announced by Mayor Zohran Mamdani in July, means that if a gym lets you join online, it can't force you to call or visit in person to end the subscription.
Both Engadget and The Verge report that the rule is enforced by the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection, with civil penalties starting at $525 per violation and the possibility of refunds. They also agree the rule mirrors a federal FTC proposal championed by Lina Khan that was struck down by an appeals court. The Verge adds that the city estimates savings of $21.5 million to $162.5 million annually, while Engadget notes specific provisions such as banning companies from requiring customers to return free items.
The two outlets differ in emphasis. Engadget highlights that Khan now serves in Mamdani's administration and that the rule includes a complaint form. The Verge focuses on DCWP Commissioner Samuel Levine, a former FTC official under Khan, who says the local rule was proposed, finalized, and implemented in one year, unlike the federal effort that took over four years. Levine also stresses that the new complaint portal is staffed by real people, not an AI chatbot, to encourage consumers to report violations.