PHOENIX — Ever booked an airline ticket? Maybe bought passes to a concert or been surprised by an expense buried in a cable bill? If you answered yes, you're not alone but now, action is being taken to prevent Americans from being bombarded with excess fees.
State leaders are taking steps to keep more money in consumer’s pockets. Supporters of the bill continue to address efforts to stop bogging down customers with hidden costs.
The Federal Trade Commission estimates that bogus fees can cost consumers tens of billions of dollars per year in unexpected costs.
Travelers at Sky Harbor Airport said this measure is long overdue.
"It's not the problem with travel, it’s all the hidden fees in your tickets," Allan, a frequent flyer, said.
"It's the fees... for the luggage, for everything additional," Gretchen, another passenger told 12News.
The Biden Administration is looking to change that, ultimately putting money back into the hands of consumers with the help of several state leaders like Arizona State Representative Analise Ortiz.
"The data shows junk fees add 20% to a person's bill and right now when so many Arizonans are struggling, every dollar really counts," Ortiz said. "It's long overdue that Arizonans have transparency when they go to buy certain goods or services."
The Department of Transportation recently introduced rules for airlines that include automatic cash refunds when flights are severely delayed or canceled. Airlines will also be required to clearly disclose fees for baggage or canceling a reservation.
"Nowadays, getting your money back is honestly the best bet," Gretchen said.
Most of these rules take effect within the next six months and airlines could face big-time fees if they don't comply.
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