Bill > SB355

This bill aims to protect consumers by requiring full price transparency when booking transient accommodations or resort time share vacation units. Specifically, the bill prohibits advertising a rental price that does not include all government-imposed taxes and fees, mandating that these additional costs be clearly displayed in every advertisement, including online listings. The legislation requires that if taxes and fees are shown as a percentage during the booking process, they must also be displayed as a dollar amount, ensuring consumers understand the exact total cost before completing a transaction. The bill draws support from national efforts to reduce hidden fees, such as the federal Junk Fee Prevention Act and California's Consumers Legal Remedies Act. It defines key terms like "booking transaction" and references existing Hawaii statutes for definitions of "government entity," "resort time share vacation unit," and "transient accommodations." The bill is designed to prevent consumers from being surprised by unexpected charges and to help them make more informed purchasing decisions. The new rules will apply to all future transactions, and the act will take effect immediately upon approval.

Business and Industry

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=355&year=2026