The Consumer Review Fairness Act (CRFA) protects consumers’ ability to share their honest opinions about a business’s products, services, or conduct, in any forum, including social media. For example, businesses must comply with the CRFA when attempting to limit or respond to consumer reviews. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) enforces the CRFA, and believes contracts that prohibit honest reviews or threaten legal action over them harm consumers who rely on reviews when making their purchase decisions—and harm businesses that work hard to earn positive reviews.

In Vermont, as in all states, the Consumer Review Fairness Act (CRFA) applies to protect consumers' rights to post honest reviews about a business's products, services, or conduct. The CRFA, a federal law, makes it illegal for companies to use contracts that bar or penalize customers for posting negative reviews or complaints. The law specifically targets non-disparagement clauses that businesses might include in their terms of service, which could otherwise restrict the ability of customers to speak openly about their experiences. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is responsible for enforcing the CRFA. Vermont businesses must ensure that their practices are in compliance with the CRFA, and they cannot legally enforce contract terms that would penalize consumers for posting honest reviews, whether those reviews are positive or negative. This ensures that consumers can share their experiences freely, contributing to a transparent marketplace where feedback and consumer opinions are openly available.