An act relating to fair disclosure of lodging rates and resort fees
Impact
The bill aims to amend Vermont's consumer protection laws by requiring lodging establishments to adhere strictly to a standard in their advertisements. Specifically, it mandates that any advertised rate must reflect the comprehensive cost of lodging, excluding only government fees. This provision ensures that consumers are not misled or feel defrauded when they check out, as they would already have knowledge of all fees included in their booking. Violators of this regulation would be committing an unfair and deceptive act under the state's commerce regulations.
Summary
Bill S0123, introduced by Senator Brock, seeks to enhance consumer protection in the lodging industry by mandating that establishments accurately disclose the total cost of lodging in their advertisements. This includes the advertised rates along with any potential additional charges, such as 'resort fees', which are often disclosed only at checkout. The intention behind the bill is to eliminate the confusion caused when consumers are presented with unexpected charges, thereby empowering them to make more informed choices about their lodging options.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding S0123 may arise from the lodging industry itself, which could argue that such regulations impose additional burdens on businesses by requiring them to change their advertising practices. Critics may voice concerns about the potential for decreased profits if all fees must be disclosed upfront, particularly in competitive markets where price sensitivity is high. Moreover, while consumer advocacy groups are likely to support the bill, there could be opposing views from entities that see such regulations as an infringement on business autonomy.
Effective_date
The provisions of S0123 are set to come into effect on July 1, 2023, marking a significant step in enhancing consumer rights within Vermont's hospitality sector.