The Consumer Review Fairness Act, passed in December of 2016, forbids businesses from penalizing or taking legal action against a client who publishes public criticism. The legislation follows years of efforts by consumer advocate groups to rid the business world of the fine print in contracts that ultimately forbid bad reviews from customers. This fine print, also known as a “gag clause,” was, prior to the passing of the Act, a legal way to limit free speech.
Yelp says the Consumer Review Fairness Act “gives Americans nationwide new guaranteed legal protections when it comes to sharing these honest, first-hand experiences.”
So, feel free to complain away, and warn your neighbors about the shifty contractor, the bad sushi, or the tattoo artist who spelled your girlfriend’s name wrong, and know that your words are your own and that they are protected for years to come.
