SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — Gyms across the state offer lifetime membership plans, but Illinois lawmakers say some contracts have provisions in fine print that either decrease benefits or increase costs as time goes by.
A bill on Gov. JB Pritzker’s desk states that gyms can no longer advertise lifetime memberships, as members need to renew their contract annually. It also requires gyms to display contract changes clearly, rather than using fine print.
"You have to let someone know during that annual renewal if the rates are changing or if the services are changing," said Rep. Rita Mayfield (D-Waukegan). "Finally, if an individual requests a copy of their contract [in] year two, three, or four, you have to give them a copy of the contract."
This proposal passed out of the House on a 77-36 vote and received a 55-2 vote in the Senate.
"We all know the feeling of being swamped by memberships and subscriptions," said Sen. Christopher Belt (D-Swansea). "The last thing we need is a price hike on what was a promised rate. This legislation makes sure gyms and fitness centers are honest with their members."
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