AARP Applauds End-of-Session Wins to Protect Older New Yorkers and Strengthen Consumer Protections

AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel issued the following statement today following the passage of key consumer protection measures, including legislation to crack down on surveillance pricing and a first-in-the-nation one-year moratorium on new large-scale data centers:

“As the legislative session comes to a close, New York took meaningful steps to protect older residents and make the state more affordable and fair. From stopping unfair pricing practices to addressing the rising costs tied to large energy-hungry data centers, these are real victories for consumers, especially older New Yorkers living on fixed incomes.

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Lawmakers acted to stop a deeply unfair practice: using personal data to charge consumers different prices for the exact same products. At a time when costs are already too high, no one should have to worry that their own data is being used to make them pay more. This legislation targets surveillance pricing while preserving discounts like coupons, loyalty programs, and savings for seniors, veterans, and teachers.

At the same time, the Legislature recognized growing concerns about the impact of large-scale data centers on energy costs by approving a one-year moratorium on new facilities. This pause allows the state to take a thoughtful look at how these massive energy users could drive up utility costs for everyday households.

Together, these actions send a clear message: New Yorkers should be treated fairly, whether they’re shopping online or paying their utility bills. No one should pay more simply because of who they are, what data companies collect about them, or because large corporations shift costs onto consumers.

The Legislature has made strong progress; now these measures must be signed into law and fully implemented to deliver the relief and protections New Yorkers deserve.”

Connect with AARP New York on X: @AARPNY, Facebook: AARP New York and LinkedIn: AARP New York

About AARP

AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP produces the nation's largest circulation publications, AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org/about-aarp/, www.aarp.org/español or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.