SPRINGFIELD – Building on her previous legislation, a new law from State Senator Laura Fine strengthens consumer protections for the purchase of hearing aids.

“Hearing aids are important tools to help those with hearing loss communicate in ways they are most comfortable with,” said Fine (D-Glenview). “This legislation will ensure consumers have the protection of a 30-day return period so if a hearing aid is not supporting their communication needs, they will be able to return them for an alternative.”

Earlier this year, Senator Fine passed Senate Bill 1721 which required all hearing instruments and hearing aids to be dispensed or sold in accordance with the Food and Drug Administration and the Federal Trade Commission's regulations. This law also established the evaluation standards for a person seeking a hearing aid, and it permits the waiver of a prescription for a hearing aid if the individual is over 18.

Expanding on these protections, Senate Bill 767 allows customers to return purchased hearing aids for a refund within 30 days. This will give consumers more confidence when taking the intimidating step to purchase a hearing aid, as they will be able to return or exchange it if there are issues with the device or it does not suit their needs.

“Like all technology, some hearing aids may be faulty and can be easily replaced by manufacturers,” said Fine. “We need to have return periods in place so consumers are able to do so, and this law will give consumers more peace of mind when making this significant purchase.” 

Senate Bill 767 was signed into law Friday and goes into effect Jan. 1, 2024.