Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker signs consumer‑protection laws on BNPL services and hidden fees

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker signed two consumer‑protection measures aimed at increasing transparency and reducing debt risks for residents. The Buy‑Now‑Pay‑Later (BNPL) Loan Consumer Protection Act requires BNPL providers to register with state regulators, disclose loan costs, and assess consumers’ ability to repay. Providers have until Jan. 1, 2028 to meet the requirements, while the law takes effect immediately.

The Junk Fee Ban Act, also approved by the legislature and sent to the governor, bars businesses from advertising prices that omit mandatory fees and surcharges (taxes excluded). Lawmakers estimate the hidden charges add about $3,200 per year to a typical family of four, and the new rule seeks to display the full price up front, improving budgeting and competition.

Both bills join recent Illinois measures such as a digital‑asset tax and a ban on misleading ticket‑sale bots, reflecting a broader push for consumer‑fairness in the state.