Government and Politics
May 20, 2024
From: Minnesota Governor Timothy James WalzST. PAUL, MN - Governor Tim Walz today signed a bill that will eliminate junk fees by requiring companies to disclose mandatory fees in product advertising. Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan were joined by bill authors, Senator Lindsey Port and Representative Emma Greenman, and advocates.
“Minnesotans value transparency, which is why we’re putting an end to junk fees on everything from food and entertainment to hotels and credit card fees,” said Governor Walz. “This bill is going to protect Minnesotans’ bottom line, provide clarity for consumers, and ensure companies aren’t using deceptive practices to rip their customers off.”
“Hidden junk fees tacked on by companies like food delivery apps, hotels, and ticket sellers can cost families thousands of dollars a year,” said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. “This important piece of legislation will protect Minnesotans from deceptive practices and save them real money.”
Chapter 111, House File 3438 bans the practice of hidden and deceptive fees which cost the average Minnesota family more than $3,000 per year. The bill requires that the full price of a product, including all mandatory fees, must be disclosed at the beginning of the transaction and in any advertising. It also prevents charges that don’t align with any additional product or service.