Even if you live in California or another state with strong consumer protection laws, those local protections may not apply to your dispute with Public because the agreement specifies a different state's law governs.
Consumer impact
By agreeing to Public.com's Terms of Service, users waive their right to sue the company in court or participate in class action lawsuits, and instead must resolve disputes through binding individual arbitration. Public retains broad discretion to suspend or terminate accounts, modify services, and limit its own financial liability to users. You can opt out of the mandatory arbitration clause by sending written notice to Public within 30 days of first creating your account.
Applicable agencies
State Attorney General
State AGs in California, New York, Texas, and other states can investigate violations of state consumer protection and privacy laws, including CCPA (California), SHIELD Act (New York), and equivalents.
Who can file: Residents of states with comprehensive privacy laws — primarily California, Virginia, Colorado, Connecticut, and Utah
What you need: Evidence of the violation, explanation of how your state rights were affected, and your account or contact information with the company
What to expect: Outcomes vary by state. May result in investigation, enforcement action, or requirement for the company to change practices. No direct individual compensation in most cases.
Search "[your state] attorney general consumer complaint" to find your state's direct complaint form