SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Javier Cervantes is making it easier to cancel unwanted gym memberships thanks to legislation that he passed through the Senate to streamline how people can cancel a contract.

“Giving consumers simple and efficient methods to cancel their subscription or contract helps ensure they don’t fall victim to confusing subscription services that automatically renew payments for services they no longer use,” said Cervantes (D-Chicago). “This legislation will simply update business practices to fit with modern times.”

Under the new legislation, businesses offering physical fitness services, like gym memberships, would have to allow customers to cancel their contract either online or by email, instead of only by mail or in-person. 

The measure would also require contracts for physical fitness services that automatically renew to comply with the Automatic Contract Renewal Act, which ensures businesses give full disclosure of their automatic terms and cancellation policies and do not charge customers without proper consent.

“Consumers in Illinois have the tools to make canceling their subscriptions with other services easier—these provisions should also apply to fitness services,” said Cervantes. “Residents may go months or even years without knowing if their old gym membership is renewing and charging them, which can cause financial strain. These changes will make the process more transparent, fair and easier for everyone.”

House Bill 4911 passed the Senate on Thursday.